When it comes to your credit score and financial well-being, understanding the criteria that Capital One and other lenders utilize is essential. Your credit score plays a significant role in determining your eligibility for credit cards, loans, and other financial opportunities. Capital One considers multiple factors when evaluating creditworthiness, and knowing these criteria can help you make informed decisions and manage your credit effectively.
To give you a better understanding, this article will delve into the credit score range utilized by Capital One, the components that determine your credit score, and the impact a credit score has on various aspects of your financial life. Additionally, we’ll explore strategies for building and maintaining a strong credit score, as well as tips for avoiding common credit pitfalls.
Key Takeaways:
- A credit score is a three-digit number that reflects your creditworthiness and is used by lenders to assess risk.
- Capital One considers factors such as payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and types of credit used in their credit evaluations.
- A good credit score improves access to credit and can lead to lower interest rates.
- Building a strong credit score involves responsible credit card usage, maintaining low credit utilization, and making on-time payments.
- Avoid common credit pitfalls such as falling for credit repair companies or making late payments.
What is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number that reflects an individual’s financial character and serves as an indicator of their creditworthiness. It is calculated using a complex algorithm that takes into account various aspects of their credit history and financial behavior.
A higher credit score is generally associated with a greater likelihood of obtaining loans, credit cards, and other financial opportunities. Lenders and creditors rely on credit scores to assess the risk of lending money or extending credit. A strong credit score can unlock access to better interest rates, higher credit limits, and more favorable terms.
The importance of credit score cannot be overstated. It influences not only borrowing capabilities but also impacts other areas of life, such as housing options, employment opportunities, insurance premiums, utility contracts, and even rental applications. Maintaining a good credit score is essential for financial success and stability.
Credit Bureaus and Credit Score Ranges
When it comes to calculating credit scores, credit bureaus play a vital role. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion are three renowned credit bureaus that collect and maintain the credit data used to determine credit scores. These bureaus gather information from banks, credit card companies, and lenders to create comprehensive credit reports. Think of credit bureaus as the backbone of the credit scoring system, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of credit information.
Credit scores themselves fall into different ranges, reflecting an individual’s creditworthiness. While the specific categorizations may slightly vary between lenders and industries, a general guide is to consider scores above 700 as good and scores below 600 as less favorable. However, it’s important to note that each lender may have its own criteria and thresholds for evaluating creditworthiness.
Understanding credit bureaus and credit score ranges is essential for anyone seeking credit or striving to improve their financial standing. Let’s explore this further with a comprehensive table that outlines the credit score ranges provided by Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion:
| Credit Score Range | Rating | Likelihood of Approval | Interest Rates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 800 – 850 | Excellent | High | Lowest |
| 740 – 799 | Very Good | High | Low |
| 670 – 739 | Good | Moderate | Moderate |
| 580 – 669 | Fair | Low | High |
| 300 – 579 | Poor | Very Low | Highest |
The table provides a snapshot of how credit score ranges may impact credit opportunities, including the likelihood of approval by lenders and the corresponding interest rates. It’s crucial to aim for a credit score that falls into the Excellent or Very Good range, as these scores indicate strong creditworthiness, making it easier to obtain credit and secure more favorable terms.
Remember, maintaining a solid credit score is within your control. Paying bills on time, minimizing debt, and managing credit responsibly can help you achieve a credit score that opens doors to financial opportunities.
Components That Determine a Credit Score
A credit score is a numerical representation of an individual’s creditworthiness, and it is determined by several key components. Understanding these components is crucial for maintaining a healthy credit score and financial well-being.
1. Payment History
Your payment history plays a significant role in determining your credit score. It reflects your ability to make timely payments on your debts, such as credit card bills, loans, and mortgage payments. Consistently making payments on time positively impacts your credit score, demonstrating your reliability as a borrower.
2. Amounts Owed
The amount of debt you owe is another important factor in calculating your credit score. It considers the total outstanding balance on all your credit accounts, including credit cards, loans, and lines of credit. Maintaining a low credit utilization ratio (the percentage of available credit you are using) can have a positive impact on your credit score.
3. Length of Credit History
The length of your credit history indicates the duration of time you have been using credit. Lenders consider a longer credit history more favorable, as it provides a more comprehensive picture of your borrowing behavior and financial responsibility. A longer credit history, especially one with a record of responsible credit use, can positively impact your credit score.
4. New Credit
When you apply for new credit, such as a loan or credit card, it can have an impact on your credit score. Opening multiple new credit accounts within a short period may be seen as a sign of financial instability, potentially lowering your credit score. However, responsible access to new credit can also demonstrate your ability to manage additional debt responsibly.
5. Types of Credit Used
Having a diverse mix of credit accounts can positively influence your credit score. This includes different types of credit, such as credit cards, installment loans, and mortgages. By responsibly managing a variety of credit types, you demonstrate your ability to handle different financial obligations.
Understanding the components that determine your credit score can empower you to take proactive steps towards improving and maintaining a strong credit profile. By focusing on these factors, you can make informed financial decisions, establish healthy credit habits, and achieve long-term financial success.
The Impact of Credit Scores
Credit scores have a profound impact on various aspects of an individual’s financial life. A good credit score improves access to credit, making it easier to obtain loans, credit cards, and favorable terms. It can also lead to lower interest rates, saving individuals significant amounts of money over time. Additionally, credit scores affect housing options, employment opportunities (particularly in the financial sector), insurance premiums, and even utilities and rental applications.
When it comes to accessing credit, a good credit score opens doors to a wide range of financial opportunities. Lenders are more likely to approve loan applications and extend credit to individuals with higher credit scores. This means that if you have a strong credit score, you have a better chance of securing the financing you need for important life events, such as buying a home or starting a business.
Moreover, having a good credit score can result in lower interest rates on loans and credit cards. Lenders perceive borrowers with higher credit scores as less risky, which incentivizes them to offer more competitive interest rates. Over time, even a slight reduction in interest rates can translate into substantial savings. Whether it’s a mortgage, auto loan, or credit card, a good credit score can potentially save you thousands of dollars in interest payments.
Furthermore, credit scores play a significant role in various aspects of housing. When applying for a rental property, landlords often conduct credit checks to assess potential tenants’ reliability. A higher credit score increases the likelihood of getting approved for a rental and can even give you an advantage over other applicants. Similarly, credit scores can impact the affordability of utilities, as utility providers may require a deposit or charge higher rates for individuals with lower credit scores.
Employers, particularly those in the financial sector, often consider credit scores when evaluating job applicants. A good credit score can demonstrate financial responsibility and trustworthiness, reflecting positively on a candidate’s character. Similarly, insurance companies may use credit scores as a factor in determining insurance premiums. Individuals with higher credit scores are perceived as less likely to file claims, leading to potentially lower insurance costs.
In summary, credit scores have far-reaching implications for individuals’ financial lives. They not only determine access to credit and the cost of borrowing but also impact housing options, employment opportunities, insurance premiums, and even everyday expenses like utilities. It is essential to actively manage and improve credit scores to maximize financial opportunities and maintain a healthy financial profile.
Building and Maintaining a Strong Credit Score
Building and maintaining a strong credit score is essential for financial stability and access to favorable credit opportunities. By following a few key strategies, individuals can establish and sustain a solid credit foundation.
Regularly Check Credit Reports
Regularly checking credit reports from credit bureaus like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion is crucial for understanding and managing your credit. Reviewing your credit report allows you to ensure its accuracy and detect any errors or fraudulent activity that could impact your credit score. Consider obtaining a free credit report from each bureau annually or using a credit monitoring service to stay informed.
Build Credit Responsibly with Credit Cards
Credit cards are valuable tools for building credit when used responsibly. Start by obtaining a credit card and making on-time payments in full each month. This demonstrates your ability to manage credit responsibly and establishes a positive credit history. Avoid carrying large balances and aim to keep your credit utilization ratio (the amount of credit you’re using compared to your overall credit limit) below 30%.
Maintain On-Time Payments
Consistently making on-time payments across all your credit accounts is crucial for maintaining a strong credit score. Payment history is one of the most significant factors in credit evaluations. Set up automatic payments or use payment reminders to avoid missing due dates. By prioritizing and ensuring on-time payments, you demonstrate your financial responsibility and improve your creditworthiness.
Diversify Your Credit Mix
Having a diverse credit mix shows lenders that you can handle different types of credit responsibly. Consider having a combination of credit cards, loans, and other credit types. This not only demonstrates your ability to handle different financial obligations but also adds depth to your credit history. However, be cautious when opening new credit accounts, as numerous inquiries and new credit can negatively impact your credit score in the short term.
Benefits of Building and Maintaining a Strong Credit Score
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Access to Credit | A good credit score increases your chances of obtaining loans and credit cards with favorable terms. |
| Lower Interest Rates | A strong credit score can help you secure loans and credit cards with lower interest rates, saving you money in the long run. |
| Housing Opportunities | Landlords and property managers often consider credit scores when evaluating rental applications, so a strong credit score can increase your chances of securing a desirable rental property. |
| Employment Opportunities | Some employers, especially in the financial sector, may review credit scores as part of their background check processes. A strong credit score can positively impact your employability. |
| Insurance Premiums | Insurance companies may use credit scores to determine premiums. Maintaining a strong credit score can lead to lower insurance premium rates. |
| Utilities | When setting up certain utility services, such as electricity or cable, a strong credit score may make it easier to avoid hefty security deposits. |
By actively following these strategies, individuals can build and maintain a strong credit score, opening up a world of financial opportunities and ensuring their long-term credit health.
Avoiding Common Credit Pitfalls
When it comes to maintaining a strong credit score, it’s important to be aware of common credit pitfalls that can negatively impact your financial health. By understanding these pitfalls, you can make informed decisions and protect your creditworthiness. Let’s debunk some credit myths, discuss the risks associated with credit repair companies, highlight the consequences of late payments and collections, and address misconceptions surrounding checking credit reports.
Debunking Credit Myths
There are many credit myths circulating that can lead individuals astray. One common myth is the belief that carrying a balance on your credit cards will help improve your credit score. In reality, carrying a high balance can increase your credit utilization ratio, potentially lowering your credit score. It’s important to pay your credit card bills in full and on time to maintain a healthy credit profile.
The Risks of Credit Repair Companies
Credit repair companies often promise quick fixes to improve your credit score. However, it’s essential to approach these companies with caution. Some credit repair services may engage in fraudulent practices and charge high fees for services that you can do yourself. It’s important to research and thoroughly vet any credit repair company before considering their services.
The Consequences of Late Payments and Collections
Late payments and collections can have a significant impact on your credit score. Making payments after the due date or allowing collections accounts to be reported on your credit report can lower your score and make it more challenging to qualify for favorable credit terms. It’s crucial to prioritize making payments on time and address any outstanding debts promptly to avoid negative repercussions.
Debunking Misconceptions about Checking Credit Reports
Some individuals believe that checking their credit reports will harm their credit scores. This is a common misconception. Regularly monitoring your credit reports is essential for staying informed about your credit history and detecting any errors or fraudulent activity. Checking your credit reports, whether through credit monitoring services or annual free reports, will not negatively impact your credit score.
Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to managing your credit. By avoiding credit myths, being cautious of credit repair companies, staying on top of your payments, and staying informed about your credit reports, you can protect your credit health and make better financial decisions.
| Common Credit Pitfalls | Impact on Credit Health |
|---|---|
| Credit myths | Potential negative impact on credit score |
| Credit repair companies | Risks of fraudulent practices and high fees |
| Late payments and collections | Lowered credit score, difficulty qualifying for credit |
| Misconceptions about checking credit reports | No negative impact on credit score |
Understanding the Difference Between Hard and Soft Inquiries
In the world of credit scores, inquiries play a significant role in determining creditworthiness. But not all inquiries are created equal. It’s essential to understand the difference between hard inquiries and soft inquiries. Let’s dive into the definitions and implications of each.
Hard Inquiries
A hard inquiry occurs when a lender reviews an individual’s credit report to assess their creditworthiness. This typically happens when someone applies for a loan or credit card. Hard inquiries can have a slight impact on a credit score, usually resulting in a temporary decrease of 5-10 points. The reason for this impact is that multiple hard inquiries within a short period may suggest that a person is actively seeking credit, which could be a sign of financial instability. However, it’s essential to note that the impact of hard inquiries is relatively small and diminishes over time.
Example of a Hard Inquiry: John applies for an auto loan at his local bank. The bank checks John’s credit report to determine whether he qualifies for the loan. This instance would result in a hard inquiry on John’s credit report.
Soft Inquiries
A soft inquiry, on the other hand, does not affect an individual’s credit score. It occurs when someone or an organization checks their credit report without intentions of lending or extending credit. Soft inquiries are often used for background checks, pre-approval offers, or personal reference. Since these inquiries do not impact credit scores, they allow individuals to review their own credit reports and monitor their financial health without worry.
Example of a Soft Inquiry: Sarah wants to review her credit report for personal reasons, so she requests a copy from one of the major credit bureaus. This action does not result in a negative impact on her credit score.
In summary, the main distinction between hard and soft inquiries lies in their impact on credit scores. Hard inquiries may have a small, temporary impact, while soft inquiries have no effect on credit scores whatsoever. Understanding these differences can help individuals make informed decisions when it comes to applying for credit and monitoring their credit reports.
| Hard Inquiries | Soft Inquiries |
|---|---|
| Occurs when a lender checks credit report for credit evaluation | Used for non-credit-related checks or personal review |
| Slightly lowers credit score (5-10 points) | No impact on credit score |
| Associated with credit applications and loan requests | Used for background checks, pre-approval offers, and personal reference |
| Visible on credit report and seen by other lenders | Not visible to other lenders |
Situations Leading to Hard and Soft Inquiries
Understanding the contexts in which hard and soft inquiries occur is key to navigating the credit landscape. Let’s explore some common examples of hard and soft inquiries:
Hard Inquiry Examples:
- Applying for mortgages
- Auto loans
- Credit cards
- Renting an apartment
- Setting up utility services
When you engage in these activities, lenders and service providers may perform hard inquiries on your credit report to evaluate your creditworthiness.
Soft Inquiry Examples:
- Checking personal credit reports
- Reviewing pre-approval offers
- Employment background checks
- Personal use or self-checking
Soft inquiries are typically used for informational purposes that don’t impact your credit score. They are useful for self-monitoring your credit status, exploring financial options, and conducting personal assessments.
Being aware of these examples can help you better understand the impact of different types of inquiries on your credit history and score.
| Type of Inquiry | Description |
|---|---|
| Hard Inquiry | A credit check performed by a lender or service provider to assess creditworthiness |
| Soft Inquiry | A non-impactful credit check used for informational purposes or self-assessment |
Impact of Inquiries on Credit Score
When it comes to credit inquiries, understanding their impact on your credit score is crucial in managing your credit effectively. Both hard inquiries and soft inquiries play a role in evaluating your creditworthiness, but they have different effects on your credit score.
Hard inquiries occur when a lender checks your credit report as part of a credit application. Examples of hard inquiries include applying for a mortgage, a car loan, or a credit card. While a single hard inquiry may only have a small impact on your credit score (typically 5-10 points), multiple hard inquiries within a short period can have a more significant effect. It’s important to note that hard inquiries remain on your credit report for two years but typically only affect your credit score for about one year.
Soft inquiries do not impact your credit score. These inquiries occur when you check your credit report, receive pre-approved credit offers, or undergo background checks for employment. Unlike hard inquiries, soft inquiries do not appear on your credit report and do not affect your credit score.
| Hard Inquiries | Soft Inquiries | |
|---|---|---|
| Credit Score Impact | Temporarily lowers credit score by 5-10 points | No impact on credit score |
| Appearance on Credit Report | Remain on credit report for two years | Do not appear on credit report |
| Duration of Effect | Affects credit score for approximately one year | No lasting effect on credit score |
Being aware of the impact of these inquiries empowers you to make informed decisions about credit applications and monitor your credit health effectively. By minimizing unnecessary hard inquiries and understanding the distinction between hard and soft inquiries, you can manage your credit and strive for a strong credit score.
Duration of Inquiries on Credit Report
When it comes to credit inquiries, understanding their duration and impact on your credit report is essential. Let’s explore how long hard inquiries and soft inquiries stay on your credit report and the credit score implications.
Hard Inquiries
Hard inquiries occur when lenders review your credit report to assess your creditworthiness, usually when you apply for a loan or credit card. These inquiries can have a temporary impact on your credit score.
Duration:
| Hard Inquiries | Credit Report Duration | Credit Score Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Two years | About one year |
Hard inquiries stay on your credit report for two years but only affect your credit score for about one year. Over time, the impact of hard inquiries gradually diminishes as they age.
Soft Inquiries
Soft inquiries, on the other hand, do not impact your credit score and do not appear on your credit report. These inquiries occur when you check your own credit report or when businesses perform background checks for pre-approval offers or employment purposes.
Duration:
| Soft Inquiries | Credit Report Duration | Credit Score Impact |
|---|---|---|
| No trace | No impact |
Soft inquiries leave no lasting impact on your credit report or credit score. They provide an opportunity to check your own credit or explore potential offers without affecting your creditworthiness.
Understanding the duration of inquiries on your credit report empowers you to make informed decisions and manage your credit effectively. While hard inquiries can have a temporary impact on your credit score, their significance diminishes over time. Soft inquiries, on the other hand, leave no trace on your credit report, allowing you to explore credit options without consequences.
Identifying Hard and Soft Inquiries on Your Credit Report
Checking credit reports regularly is essential for understanding your credit standing and identifying different types of inquiries. By examining your credit report, you can distinguish between hard and soft inquiries, gaining insights into who is checking your credit and ensuring the accuracy of your credit history.
Hard inquiries are visible on your credit report and typically appear alongside the name of the lender or creditor who conducted the inquiry. They signify that you have applied for credit or loan, such as a mortgage, auto loan, or credit card. Hard inquiries may slightly lower your credit score and remain on your credit report for two years. However, their impact on your credit score usually lasts for about one year.
On the other hand, soft inquiries do not impact your credit score and are not visible to other lenders. They may also be listed in a separate section of your credit report. Soft inquiries are often associated with actions like checking your own credit report, pre-approval offers, employment background checks, or personal use. They serve to provide information and do not affect your credit score or credit history.
Identifying hard and soft inquiries on your credit report gives you a comprehensive view of your credit health and helps you understand how potential lenders or creditors perceive your creditworthiness. It also enables you to spot any inaccuracies or unauthorized inquiries that may require rectification.
To sum up:
Hard inquiries:
- Visible on your credit report
- Associated with specific lenders or creditors
- Result from credit applications for loans, mortgages, or credit cards
- May slightly lower your credit score
- Remain on your credit report for two years
- Affect your credit score for about one year
Soft inquiries:
- Not visible to other lenders
- May appear in a separate section of your credit report
- Include actions like personal credit report checks or pre-approval offers
- Do not impact your credit score or credit history
- Do not have a lasting effect on your credit report
By understanding the differences between hard and soft inquiries and regularly examining your credit report, you can stay informed about your credit activity and make informed decisions to maintain a healthy credit profile.
Minimizing the Impact of Hard Inquiries
When it comes to managing your credit health, minimizing the impact of hard inquiries is crucial. Hard inquiries occur when lenders check your credit report to assess your creditworthiness, and they can have a temporary negative effect on your credit score. However, there are strategies you can employ to minimize this impact and maintain a strong credit profile.
Rate Shopping
Rate shopping is a smart approach to reducing the impact of hard inquiries. It involves applying for the same type of credit, such as a mortgage or a car loan, within a specific timeframe, typically 14 to 45 days. During this period, multiple hard inquiries for the same type of credit are treated as a single inquiry, minimizing the impact on your credit score. This allows you to compare rates and terms without worrying about multiple inquiries negatively affecting your creditworthiness.
Credit Application Selectivity
Being selective with your credit applications is another effective way to minimize the number of hard inquiries on your credit report. Before applying for credit, carefully consider whether it’s necessary and aligns with your financial goals. Applying for credit only when needed can help reduce the overall number of hard inquiries on your report, preserving your credit health.
Regular Monitoring and Disputing Unauthorized Inquiries
Regularly monitoring your credit report is essential for identifying any unauthorized or fraudulent hard inquiries. If you discover a hard inquiry that you didn’t authorize, it’s important to take action immediately. Contact the credit bureau to dispute the inquiry and have it removed from your report. Promptly addressing unauthorized inquiries safeguards your credit health and prevents potential negative impacts on your credit score.
By implementing these strategies and taking a proactive approach to managing your credit, you can minimize the impact of hard inquiries and maintain a healthy credit profile.
| Benefits of Minimizing Hard Inquiries | Strategies to Minimize Hard Inquiries |
|---|---|
| Protect your credit score | Rate shopping within a specific timeframe |
| Preserve creditworthiness | Being selective with credit applications |
| Reduce the risk of credit denials | Regularly monitoring credit reports |
| Prevent potential fraud | Disputing unauthorized inquiries |
Conclusion
Managing your credit scores and understanding the differences between hard and soft inquiries are vital for making informed financial decisions and maintaining credit health. By actively monitoring your credit reports, taking steps to build and maintain a strong credit score, avoiding common credit pitfalls, and minimizing the impact of hard inquiries, you can navigate the credit landscape with confidence.
Regularly checking your credit reports allows you to identify any discrepancies and ensures the accuracy of your credit history. Building and maintaining a strong credit score involves responsible credit card usage, keeping your credit utilization low, making on-time payments, and diversifying your credit mix.
It’s also crucial to be aware of common credit pitfalls and avoid falling into their traps. Credit repair companies promising quick fixes should be approached with caution, and late payments and collections should be avoided. Remember that checking your credit reports does not harm your credit score, so make it a habit to examine them regularly.
Furthermore, being mindful of the impact of hard and soft inquiries on your credit report is essential. While hard inquiries may slightly lower your credit score, being selective with credit applications and engaging in rate shopping can minimize their effect. Strive to maintain a healthy credit profile to ensure financial stability and access to credit opportunities in the future. By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage your credit scores and make confident financial decisions for a healthier credit future.
FAQ
What criteria does Capital One use to evaluate credit scores?
Capital One considers factors such as payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and types of credit used in their credit evaluations.
What is a credit score?
A credit score is a three-digit number that reflects an individual’s financial character and serves as an indicator of their creditworthiness.
How do credit bureaus and credit score ranges factor into credit scores?
Credit bureaus like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion collect and maintain credit data used to calculate credit scores. Credit scores fall into different ranges, with scores above 700 considered good and scores below 600 viewed as less favorable.
What components determine a credit score?
Credit scores are determined by factors such as payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and types of credit used.
What is the impact of credit scores?
Credit scores have a profound impact on access to credit, interest rates, housing options, employment opportunities, insurance premiums, utilities, and rental applications.
How can I build and maintain a strong credit score?
Building and maintaining a strong credit score involves regularly checking credit reports, responsibly using credit cards, maintaining low credit utilization ratios, ensuring on-time payments, and diversifying credit types used.
What common credit pitfalls should I avoid?
Common credit pitfalls to avoid include falling for credit myths, being cautious of credit repair companies, avoiding late payments and collections, and understanding that checking credit reports does not harm credit scores.
What is the difference between hard and soft inquiries?
A hard inquiry occurs when a lender checks an individual’s credit report for the purpose of assessing creditworthiness, while a soft inquiry is a non-impactful check of an individual’s credit report that does not affect their credit score.
What are some situations leading to hard and soft inquiries?
Hard inquiries commonly occur when applying for mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, renting an apartment, or setting up utility services, while soft inquiries are often used for personal credit checks, pre-approval offers, employment background checks, and personal use.
What is the impact of inquiries on credit scores?
A hard inquiry can temporarily lower a credit score by 5-10 points and remains on the credit report for two years, while a soft inquiry does not impact the credit score and does not appear on the credit report.
How long do inquiries stay on a credit report?
A hard inquiry stays on a credit report for two years but only affects the credit score for about one year, while soft inquiries do not appear on the credit report.
How can I identify hard and soft inquiries on my credit report?
Regularly checking credit reports allows individuals to identify both hard and soft inquiries. Hard inquiries show up on the credit report alongside the name of the lender who conducted the inquiry, while soft inquiries may be in a separate section and are not visible to other lenders.
How can I minimize the impact of hard inquiries?
Minimizing the impact of hard inquiries can be achieved through strategic planning, rate shopping, being selective with credit applications, and regularly monitoring and disputing unauthorized inquiries.
Source Links
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/cracking-code-crucial-role-credit-scores-your-financial
- https://www.capitalone.com/auto-financing/refinance/preapproval-offer/
- https://www.brightmoney.co/learn/what-is-the-difference-between-credit-score-hard-inquiry-vs-soft-inquiry