Soft vs Hard Credit Searches
Two kinds of credit check, and only one of them leaves a mark.
"Will this affect my credit score?" is one of the most common worries about applying for credit. The answer depends entirely on which kind of search is being run. Here is how to tell them apart, and how to apply without leaving a trail of hard searches behind you.
Side By Side
Soft search
- Who sees it: only you
- Effect on your score: none
- Used for: eligibility checks, quotes, checking your own file, and identity checks
- Your permission: not always needed
Hard search
- Who sees it: you and any lender that checks your file
- Effect on your score: can lower it a little for a while
- Used for: full applications for credit you have decided to go ahead with
- Your permission: always needed
How Long A Hard Search Stays Visible
A single hard search is normal and rarely a problem. What worries lenders is several close together, because it can look as though you have been turned down repeatedly or are urgently looking for money. If you have had a refusal, it is usually better to pause and find out why than to apply again straight away.
How Applying Through Quick Loans Works
When you apply through Quick Loans, our lenders check your details with a soft search, so you can see whether you are likely to get an offer with no effect on your credit score. Our panel uses all three credit reference agencies between them.
Only if you choose to accept a lender's offer may that lender run a full, hard credit check. That means you can find out where you stand first, and only leave a hard search when you have decided to go ahead. You can read more about the process on our how it works page.
Credit Search Questions
Does checking my own credit file hurt my score?
No. Looking at your own file is always a soft search, however often you do it.
Can I see who has searched my file?
Yes. Your credit file lists both soft and hard searches, but only the hard ones are shown to lenders. Our guide to checking your credit file explains how to see yours.
There's a hard search on my file I didn't agree to. What should I do?
Contact the company named on the search and ask why it was made. If you didn't apply for anything, it could be a sign that someone is using your details, so raise it with the credit reference agency too. Our guide to fixing mistakes explains how.