A Step-by-Step Guide

Ever apply for something small—like a store credit card or auto loan—and suddenly see your score dip?

That’s the power of a hard inquiry. It seems minor, but when too many show up on your report, it can send the wrong message to lenders. To them, it looks like you’re desperately seeking credit—even if you’re not.

Here’s what most people don’t realize: not all hard inquiries are valid. Some are unauthorized. Others show up due to errors or miscommunications. And yes—you can get them removed.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • What hard inquiries actually do to your credit
  • How to spot unauthorized or incorrect inquiries
  • The exact steps to challenge and remove them legally

Let’s get into it.

Step 1: Understand What a Hard Inquiry Is (and Isn’t)

A hard inquiry happens when a lender pulls your credit to make a lending decision—like applying for a mortgage, credit card, or auto loan.

These can lower your score by a few points and stay on your report for up to 2 years. But here’s the catch: they’re only supposed to appear if you gave permission.

💡 Soft inquiries, like checking your own score or pre-approvals, don’t affect your credit and don’t need to be removed.

Step 2: Pull Your Full Credit Reports

Use a trusted platform like Smart Credit to access all three of your reports: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

Scan the “inquiries” section carefully. Highlight any:

  • You didn’t authorize
  • You don’t recognize
  • That were duplicated
  • Linked to applications you never submitted

Step 3: Contact the Creditor Directly

If an inquiry is truly unauthorized, call or email the company that pulled your credit. Ask for proof that you gave permission.

If they can’t provide it? You have grounds to dispute it.

Step 4: File a Dispute with the Credit Bureaus

You can file a dispute directly with each credit bureau. Include:

  • The name of the company
  • The date of the inquiry
  • A clear statement saying it was unauthorized
  • Any documents that support your claim

💡 Hard inquiries that are fraudulent or mistakenly reported can be removed quickly if documented properly.

Step 5: Monitor and Follow Up

After submitting your dispute, monitor your credit regularly. You should receive updates within 30 days. If the inquiry remains, follow up or escalate your complaint through the CFPB.

Bottom Line:
Hard inquiries aren’t harmless—but they’re not unbeatable either. Spot the ones that don’t belong, challenge them the right way, and keep your credit report clean and powerful.