
Credit inquiry is the process where a financial institution reviews a consumer's credit history. A hard inquiry is typically done to determine whether a consumer is eligible for credit. Soft inquiries are often made to determine if the consumer is eligible to receive credit card upgrades. Consumer credit scores can be affected by both soft and hard inquiries.
Soft inquiries are made to determine eligibility for upgrades in existing credit instruments
Soft inquiries are a type credit check that does not appear on your lender's credit report. These checks are done by companies to determine your eligibility for periodic offers or quarterly milestones, such as credit cards upgrades. These inquiries do not usually appear on your credit reports and are usually less that Rs500.
These inquiries are done without your permission. While these inquiries affect your credit score, they do not have any negative impact. In contrast, hard inquiries are the result of a credit application. If you are concerned about hard inquires, don't apply to for new credit until you are sure that you can afford it. Be sure to inquire about the type, and understand the implications of each, before you apply for credit.

Lenders will conduct hard inquiries to verify your creditworthiness before you apply for any new credit products. These inquiries are carried out by the major credit reporting agencies and are necessary for obtaining new credit. An excellent credit score indicates that you are low-risk, which can increase your chances of being approved to get new credit.
Hard inquiries have an impact on credit scores
A hard inquiry may affect your credit score but it's only temporary and will go away in a few months or one year. This is a small negative impact that should not worry a responsible shopper. Hard inquiries can be lessened by taking steps that improve your credit rating and pay off any debt.
Hard inquiries are inquiries that have been made to your credit report and indicate that you have applied or renewed credit within the last two years. This inquiry may be in the form of a loan or credit card. You may find that the inquiry stays on your credit report for more time than you think, which could affect your credit score.
Multiple hard inquiries can have a negative impact on your credit score. Do not apply for multiple credit cards within a short time. Multiple credit card applications can negatively affect your credit score. However, if you pay all the bills on time, your credit score will improve in six months.

Reasons to question a credit inquiry
The first time you notice a credit inquiry on your report, you should immediately ask questions. A hard inquiry can reduce your credit score by several percentage points. These inquiries typically occur when you apply on a loan or credit line. This could indicate identity theft if you receive multiple inquiries. To avoid causing unnecessary damage to your credit score, avoid making new applications for loans and credit cards. According to statistics, people who have six or more hard inquiries on their credit report are eight times more likely to file for bankruptcy.
There are two types of inquiries: hard inquiries and soft inquiries. Hard inquiries will have a greater impact than soft inquiries on your credit score. These inquiries are often performed by your current creditors as part of a routine process. These inquiries can result in changes to your account, such as a higher credit line or lower interest rates. This is known as account maintenance. Credit card issuers are familiar with this process.