Hard inquiries: what they are and when to dispute them
Every time you apply for credit, a lender may check your report. Here's what those checks mean.
Hard vs. soft
A hard inquiry happens when you apply for credit, like a card, car loan or mortgage. It shows on your report for about 2 years and can lower your score a little, usually for less time than that. A soft inquiry (checking your own report, pre-approved offers, some background checks) doesn't affect your score.
Shopping for a loan
Scoring models usually count several mortgage, auto or student loan inquiries made within a short shopping period as one. Do your rate shopping close together.
An inquiry you don't recognize
If a hard inquiry is from a company you never applied with, it may be a mistake or a sign of identity theft. Contact the company first, then dispute it with the bureau. If you think it's identity theft, report it at IdentityTheft.gov and consider a credit freeze.
Inquiries older than 2 years
A hard inquiry older than about 2 years shouldn't still show. You can dispute it with our free letter builder (choose "Hard inquiry I did not authorize" or explain the date).
Questions
Does checking my own credit hurt my score?
No. Checking your own report or score is a soft inquiry.
Can I remove an inquiry I did authorize?
If you applied and it's within 2 years, it's accurate and can stay.
General information, not legal advice. Sources: CFPB, FTC. Checked November 2026.