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Checking your credit can feel intimidating—but understanding how credit inquiries really work can remove unnecessary worry. During National Credit Education Month, Carrie Sapegin, Area Branch Manager, shares clarity around some of the most common credit myths she hears from customers and explains what truly impacts your score.

When it comes to credit scores, misinformation spreads quickly. Carrie Sapegin says one of the biggest myths she hears is that checking your own credit will lower your score.

“Checking your own credit does not hurt your score,” Sapegin explains. “That’s called a soft inquiry. It’s simply you reviewing your information—not actually applying for anything.”

Understanding the difference between soft and hard inquiries can help you feel more confident about monitoring your credit.

Soft Inquiry vs. Hard Inquiry: What’s the Difference?

Sapegin breaks it down clearly:

“A soft inquiry happens when you check your own credit or when a company pre-screens you for an offer. It doesn’t affect your score and isn’t tied to a lending decision.”

Soft inquiries occur when:

• You check your own credit score
• A lender pre-approves or pre-screens you for an offer
• A background check is completed

On the other hand:

“A hard inquiry happens when you formally apply for credit—like a mortgage, car loan, or credit card. That’s when the lender is evaluating you for approval.”

Hard inquiries typically occur anytime you submit a credit application and authorize a lender to review your report.

How Much Do Hard Inquiries Really Impact Your Score?

Many customers worry that applying for credit will dramatically lower their score. Sapegin offers reassurance.

“A hard inquiry typically lowers a credit score by about 3–5 points, though it can be slightly higher depending on the person’s overall credit profile.”

The impact is temporary and matters most in the first few months. While a hard inquiry can remain on your credit report for up to two years, its influence on your actual score generally fades within about a year.

She also notes that rate shopping often causes unnecessary concern.

“Most scoring models group similar loan inquiries—like mortgages or auto loans—within a short window, typically 14–45 days depending on the model, as one inquiry for scoring purposes.”

That means shopping around for the best rate within a reasonable timeframe usually won’t hurt your score multiple times.

Other Common Credit Myths

Sapegin says misinformation doesn’t stop with inquiries. Another common myth is that you need to carry a balance to build credit.

“You don’t need to carry a balance to build credit. In fact, high balances can actually hurt your score—even if you pay them off each month.”

What truly helps?

• Paying on time
• Keeping credit utilization low
• Maintaining the age of your accounts

She also reminds customers that a credit score is not fixed.

“Some people think once their credit is pulled, that score is final—but credit scores change all the time based on balances, payments, and new applications.”

Your score is dynamic. It reflects your current financial behavior.

Don’t Be Afraid to Check Your Credit

For those hesitant to review their score, Sapegin offers strong reassurance:

“Checking your credit is one of the healthiest financial habits you can have. It gives you clarity, helps you catch errors, watch for fraud, and puts you in control before making any big financial decisions.”

Monitoring your credit empowers you to make informed choices and take action early if something looks incorrect.

The Bottom Line

Understanding how credit inquiries work and separating myth from fact—can eliminate unnecessary stress. Checking your own credit does not hurt your score. Hard inquiries have a small, temporary impact. And building strong credit comes down to consistent, responsible habits over time.

This National Credit Education Month, take time to review your credit with confidence. Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools you have for protecting and strengthening your financial future.

Member FDIC | This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or other financial advice. Consumers should seek the advice of a financial advisor/professional, tax consultant, or legal counsel for their specific needs.