Soft Inquiry vs. Hard Inquiry: What Changes?
Separate the effect of submitting a request from any later lender credit review. This page explains practical considerations; your lender’s disclosures and applicable state law control any actual loan.
At a glance
A soft inquiry generally does not affect credit scores, but you should confirm the process and permissions for the specific service.
Before deciding
Check the full repayment amount, payment dates, and whether the obligation fits your essential expenses.
Who decides?
89 Cash is not a lender. Any lender determines eligibility, terms, and funding independently.
Soft inquiries
A soft inquiry generally does not affect credit scores, but you should confirm the process and permissions for the specific service.
Hard inquiries
A hard inquiry from a lender can affect a score. A lender may request authorization during its underwriting process.
Not all reviews are the same
Lenders can use credit reports, income information, bank activity, and other permitted data depending on their policies.
Read the authorization
Before submitting sensitive details, check which parties may receive the information and what checks they may perform.
Questions worth asking
- What is the total amount I would repay, including all fees?
- When is the first payment due, and what happens if it is late?
- Are there lower-cost options for this specific expense?
Further reading and official resources
For independent consumer guidance, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or the Federal Trade Commission consumer advice center. These links do not endorse this website.
Explore related guidance
Understand rates and fees · Frequently asked questions · Review request information
Questions that distinguish a soft inquiry from a hard inquiry
Credit-check practices depend on the participating lender, not the referral website alone.
| Question to ask | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Will the initial request involve a credit inquiry? | Affects how you understand the referral process |
| Will any lender run a hard inquiry before final approval? | A hard inquiry may affect a credit score |
| Which bureau and when? | Helps you identify the specific lender’s process |
What this means: Do not rely on an unqualified “no credit check” statement; ask the lender for its actual policy.
Reference: CFPB consumer guidance. Figures are educational examples, not actual 89 Cash lender offers or guaranteed terms.