An inquiry is a record of a request to access your credit report. The reason for that request matters more than the label alone.
Hard inquiries
A hard inquiry commonly follows an application for new credit, such as a card or loan. It may affect a score. If you see one tied to an application you did not make, check the details and consider whether identity theft is involved. A legitimate inquiry generally cannot be erased just because you no longer want it on the report.
Soft inquiries
Checking your own report and certain reviews by existing creditors are examples of soft inquiries. They do not affect your score. An inquiry section can include entries visible to you that are not shown to lenders reviewing your file.
Rate shopping
Some scoring models may group multiple inquiries for certain types of loans made close together. Rules differ across models and products, so do not rely on a promised number of days without checking the specific lender and model.
Checking your own credit report does not lower your score.
Source and review
Based on official consumer guidance ↗. Last editorial review: September 2026. Check the source for current details.