Hard Inquiry

A hard inquiry is when a lender checks your credit report to make a lending decision. This is also sometimes called a “hard pull.” Hard inquiries can negatively affect your credit score and are typically initiated by lenders when you apply for new credit, such as a credit card, mortgage, or auto loan. A hard inquiry stays on your credit report for up to two years, but its impact on your credit score will lessen over time. Learn more about a hard inquiry.