Hard vs Soft Inquiry

Two kinds of credit check, only one of which can affect your score.

A hard inquiry happens when you apply for new credit and a lender pulls your file to decide; several in a short period can nudge your score down and are visible to others. A soft inquiry (checking your own credit, or some background checks) does not affect your score and is not visible to lenders. The key myth to kill: checking your own credit is a soft inquiry and never lowers your score. Some rental and employment checks, however, can be hard, so it is fair to ask which kind before you consent.

General information only, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Rules change and vary by province; confirm the current details with the relevant authority before you rely on them.