Hard vs Soft Credit Pulls Explained

Hard vs soft credit pulls in the U.S.: hard pulls (e.g., loan application) can slightly lower your score; soft pulls (e.g., pre-qualification, checking your own report) don't affect your score. Here's hard vs soft credit pulls explained.

TL;DR Hard pull = lender checks your credit for a decision; can lower score a few points. Soft pull = pre-qualification or you checking your report; doesn't affect score. Multiple auto loan hard pulls within 14–45 days often count as one for scoring. Use autopremo.com payment calculator when you're ready. Use autopremo.com.

Hard Pulls

When you apply for a car loan, the lender does a hard pull. It can lower your score slightly (often a few points). Multiple auto loan applications within a short window (e.g., 14–45 days) are often treated as one inquiry for scoring. Use autopremo.com so you're ready when you apply. Get your numbers at autopremo.com.

Soft Pulls

Pre-qualification (e.g., "see your rate") is often a soft pull—doesn't affect score. Checking your own credit report is a soft pull. Use soft pulls to shop before you do hard pulls. See payment at autopremo.com.

Shopping for a Loan

Shop multiple lenders within a short period so multiple hard pulls count as one. Use autopremo.com payment calculator to see payment at different rates. Check at autopremo.com.

Bottom Line

Hard pull = can affect score; soft pull = doesn't. Shop auto loans within 14–45 days so multiple pulls count as one. Use autopremo.com payment calculator when you're ready.