How to Remove Hard Inquiries From Your Credit Report

Hard inquiries appear on credit reports when a lender or creditor checks an individual’s creditworthiness after an application for new credit, such as a loan or credit card. These inquiries can slightly lower a credit score and remain on a credit report for up to two years. Only inaccurate, unauthorized, or identity theft-related hard inquiries are eligible for removal.

Identifying Hard Inquiries and Conditions for Removal

The initial step in addressing hard inquiries involves accessing credit reports from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Individuals are entitled to a free copy of their credit report from each bureau annually, which can be obtained through AnnualCreditReport.com. Reviewing these reports allows for the identification of all listed hard inquiries.

It is important to differentiate between hard and soft inquiries. Soft inquiries occur when an individual checks their own credit, when a current lender reviews an account, or when pre-approved offers are generated, and these do not affect credit scores. Hard inquiries, however, are associated with new credit applications and can impact a score. Only hard inquiries are the subject of removal efforts.

A hard inquiry can be removed from a credit report only under specific circumstances. These conditions include an inquiry made without explicit authorization, an inquiry resulting from an error by the lender or credit bureau, or an inquiry directly linked to identity theft. For instance, if an individual did not apply for credit but an inquiry appears, it meets the criteria for potential removal.

Legitimate hard inquiries, those made with an individual’s consent for a credit application, cannot be removed. These inquiries will naturally fall off a credit report after approximately two years from the inquiry date.

Gathering Information for a Dispute

Before initiating a formal dispute, it is necessary to compile all relevant information and documentation to support the claim. Begin by accurately identifying the exact date of the inquiry and the name of the inquiring creditor as listed on your credit report.

If the inquiry was unauthorized, gather evidence that no application was made. This might include call logs, email correspondence, or any other records that demonstrate a lack of interaction or consent with the creditor for that specific credit product.

In cases of identity theft, obtain an official police report detailing the identity theft incident, or an Identity Theft Report from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). These official documents serve as verifiable evidence that the inquiry was not initiated by you.

Ensure you have copies of the relevant credit reports where the unauthorized or erroneous inquiry is highlighted. Having all this information organized and readily accessible streamlines the dispute process.

Initiating and Following Through with a Dispute

After gathering all necessary information, formally dispute the unauthorized or inaccurate hard inquiry. Disputes can be initiated directly with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Online dispute portals are available, or you can submit disputes via mail.

When disputing online, navigate to the dispute section on the credit bureau’s website. For mail disputes, draft a letter stating the inquiry you are challenging and why it is inaccurate or unauthorized. Include copies of all supporting documentation, but never send originals. Send mail disputes via certified mail with a return receipt requested.

Credit bureaus investigate claims within 30 to 45 days. They will contact the creditor to verify legitimacy and then communicate their findings.

If the initial dispute is unsuccessful, contact the creditor directly to request removal, providing your evidence. If the issue persists, filing a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) can be an effective next step. For persistent or complex cases, seeking legal advice from an attorney specializing in credit reporting issues may be necessary.