Soft checks give information on your credit history for potential lenders. But unlike hard credit checks, soft checks (also known as soft pulls or soft credit inquiries):

• Do not need your permission.
• Do not appear on your credit report.
• Do not affect your credit score.
• Will not be shared with companies asking for your credit report.
• Only you can see them.

Hard checks are sometimes also called hard pulls or hard inquiries. They appear on your credit report and stay there for up to two years. They signal to other lenders that you have asked for credit in the past.

When you apply for a credit card, loan, or mortgage, lenders and credit card companies usually do a hard check on your credit report. A hard check gives them a detailed picture of your credit history. This helps them decide what products, if any, you are eligible for.