If you’ve ever applied for credit or checked your credit score, you might have come across the terms “soft search” and “hard search”. But what do they actually mean—and why do they matter?
Understanding the difference between the two can help you protect your credit score and make more confident decisions when it comes to borrowing. Let’s break it down.
What's Included?
💡 What is a Soft Search?
A soft search (also known as a soft check or soft inquiry) is a type of credit check that leaves no impact on your credit score. It’s a quick look at your credit report, often done to give an idea of your financial background without going too deep.
Common reasons for a soft search:
- Checking your own credit score
- Pre-approval checks for loans or credit cards
- Identity verification checks
- Background checks by employers or landlords
✅ Good to know: Only you can see soft searches on your credit report—lenders can’t.
💥 What is a Hard Search?
A hard search (also called a hard credit check) happens when a lender takes a detailed look at your full credit report, usually because you’ve applied for some form of credit.
Common reasons for a hard search:
- Applying for a loan or credit card
- Taking out a mortgage or car finance
- Setting up a mobile phone contract or utility account
- Renting a property (in some cases)
Unlike soft searches, hard searches are visible to other lenders and can affect your credit score, especially if you make multiple applications in a short space of time.
🆚 Quick Comparison: Soft Search vs Hard Search
| Feature | Soft Search | Hard Search |
|---|---|---|
| Visible to lenders | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Affects credit score | ❌ No | ✅ Possibly |
| When it happens | Pre-checks or personal checks | When you apply for credit |
| Stays on your credit report | ✅ Yes, but only visible to you | ✅ Yes, visible to lenders too |
| Duration on credit file | Usually 12 months | Up to 12–24 months |
🧐 Why Does It Matter?
Too many hard searches in a short time can make lenders nervous. It might look like you’re desperate for credit, which could harm your chances of getting approved—even if you have a decent credit score.
That’s why many lenders now offer eligibility checkers using soft searches. They let you see if you’re likely to be approved without risking your credit score.
✅ Top Tip: Use Soft Search Tools First
Before you apply for credit, try using a soft search eligibility checker. It gives you a clearer idea of your chances and helps protect your credit score.
At the end of the day, being aware of how credit checks work gives you the power to make smarter financial choices.
💬 Final Thoughts
Soft searches are your credit-friendly friends—safe, simple, and invisible to lenders. Hard searches are a little more serious, so it’s best to use them wisely.
Next time you’re thinking about applying for credit, check whether it’s a soft or hard search first—it could make all the difference.
