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How Does Pre-approval Affect Credit Score?
When it comes to applying for credit, it’s important to understand how each step of the process can impact your credit score. One common stage in the credit application process is pre-approval. Pre-approval is a preliminary assessment by a lender to determine if you are eligible for a loan or credit card. This process involves a review of your credit history and financial information. But how does pre-approval affect your credit score? Let’s delve into the details.
1. Does pre-approval affect credit score?
No, pre-approval does not affect your credit score. When a lender conducts a pre-approval, they perform a soft inquiry, also known as a soft pull, on your credit report. Soft inquiries do not impact your credit score, as they are only visible to you and do not affect your creditworthiness.
2. Why does pre-approval not impact credit score?
Pre-approval does not impact your credit score because it is considered a preliminary assessment. Lenders perform soft inquiries to evaluate your creditworthiness without making a formal application or commitment. Soft inquiries are typically used for background checks, pre-approvals, and when you check your own credit.
3. Can multiple pre-approvals hurt your credit score?
No, multiple pre-approvals will not hurt your credit score. If you’re shopping around for the best loan or credit card offer, it’s natural to seek pre-approvals from multiple lenders. As long as these lenders perform soft inquiries, your credit score will not be affected. However, if you submit multiple formal applications, each application may trigger a hard inquiry, which can impact your credit score.
4. Does pre-approval guarantee a loan or credit card?
No, pre-approval does not guarantee a loan or credit card. While pre-approval indicates that you meet the initial criteria set by the lender, it is not a binding agreement. The lender will still need to verify the information provided during the pre-approval process and conduct a thorough assessment before making a final decision.
5. How long does a pre-approval last?
The duration of a pre-approval can vary depending on the lender. Some pre-approvals may be valid for a few weeks, while others may last up to a few months. It’s important to check with the lender to determine the exact timeframe. If you don’t proceed with the formal application within the specified period, the pre-approval may expire.
6. Should I get pre-approved before applying for credit?
Getting pre-approved before applying for credit can be beneficial. It allows you to understand your eligibility and gives you an idea of the loan or credit card terms you may qualify for. Pre-approval can also help you compare offers from different lenders and make an informed decision. However, keep in mind that pre-approval is not mandatory, and you can still apply for credit without going through the pre-approval process.
7. Will pre-approval impact my credit score if I proceed with the application?
If you decide to proceed with the formal application after getting pre-approved, the lender will likely conduct a hard inquiry, also known as a hard pull, on your credit report. Hard inquiries can impact your credit score, but the impact is usually minimal. On average, a hard inquiry may result in a temporary decrease of a few points in your credit score. However, the impact diminishes over time, and your score will likely recover within a few months.
In summary, pre-approval does not affect your credit score as it involves a soft inquiry. Multiple pre-approvals are also harmless to your credit score. Pre-approval does not guarantee a loan or credit card, but it can be a useful tool for comparing offers. If you proceed with the formal application, a hard inquiry may impact your credit score temporarily. It’s essential to understand the credit application process and its potential impact on your credit score to make informed financial decisions.
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