Glossary

Hard Credit Pull (Hard Inquiry)

A credit inquiry that temporarily lowers your credit score by a few points.

Triggered when you formally apply for credit. Auto loan shopping has a special protection: multiple hard pulls within a 14-day window count as a single inquiry. Always cluster your applications.

Related terms

Soft Credit Pull

A credit inquiry that does not affect your credit score.

Pre-Approval

A lender's formal commitment to lend you a specific amount at a specific rate, contingent on final verification.

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