The difference between hard and soft credit checks

Years of experience have given the Fix My Credit team a unique understanding of all the lingo associated with financial services, however, we understand that as a client you may not have the same familiarity with these terms. In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between hard and soft credit checks so you know how they impact your credit. 

The purpose of hard and soft credit checks   

Soft credit checks: Soft checks can be considered more routine and they won’t affect your credit score. These types of checks occur when a background check is conducted for pre-approved offers, by employers or when you check your own credit. 

Hard credit checks: These credit checks generally happen when you apply for new credit, such as a loan or credit card. They involve a thorough examination of your credit report and may have a temporary impact on your credit score.

Authorisation

Soft credit checks: You don’t need to give permission for a soft credit check – thus why they are commonly used for background checks or pre-approval. 

Hard credit checks: You will need to give permission for anyone to conduct a hard credit check and it’s normally asked for when you seek new credit. 

Visibility 

Soft credit checks: When a soft credit check is conducted no one else but you can see it. It won’t have any impact on your credit score and it’s generally listed in a separate section of your credit report. 

Hard credit checks: Your credit report will show any hard credit checks that have been conducted in the past two years. Over time, the impact of a hard credit check will be reduced. 

Frequency 

Soft credit checks: Because soft credit checks are fairly routine, they can occur more frequently without negatively impacting your credit score. 

Hard credit checks: Every hard credit check is recorded, so when your credit report shows multiple checks within a short amount of time, lenders may be concerned there is a higher risk of financial instability.

Credit repair with Fix My Credit

At Fix My Credit, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy credit profile and have a variety of services to help you fix your financial issues. Our credit repair services include: 

• Full credit report analysis: We conduct a thorough examination of your credit report, identifying areas that require attention and improvement.
• Credit restoration: Our experts work to address negative items on your credit report, looking for a more favourable credit standing.
• Removal of defaults, court judgements and clearouts: Our team specialises in the removal of defaults, court judgments, and clearouts from your credit history.
• Help securing finance: We offer guidance and support in securing finance.
• Debt negotiation: Our skilled negotiators work with creditors to establish manageable debt repayment plans, helping you regain financial control.

Understanding the differences between hard and soft credit checks is important when you’re navigating credit repair and considering applying for credit in the future. At Fix My Credit, our commitment to your financial well-being extends beyond credit repair, with a range of services designed to empower you on your journey to a healthier credit profile. 

Contact Fix My Credit for more information.