How to Check Your Options Without Impacting Credit
Many people hesitate to explore debt relief options because they're worried about credit score damage. But the good news? Checking your options doesn't have to hurt your credit at all.
Understanding Credit Checks
There are two types of credit checks:
Hard Credit Checks
- Appear on your credit report
- Can lower your score by 5-10 points
- Used when applying for loans or credit cards
- Stay on your report for 2 years
Soft Credit Checks
- Don't appear on your credit report
- Don't affect your credit score
- Used for pre-qualification and background checks
- Not visible to lenders
Why Soft Checks Matter
When you use MyPaymentor to explore your options, we use soft credit checks to: - Understand your financial situation - Match you with appropriate programs - Pre-qualify you for potential solutions - Show you options without commitment
Your credit score stays completely untouched.
What Gets Checked?
Soft checks typically review: - Credit utilization - Payment history - Public records (bankruptcies, liens) - Overall credit health
This information helps us match you with programs that fit your situation.
Protecting Your Credit
When exploring options, always ask: - "Will this check affect my credit score?" - "Is this a hard or soft credit check?" - "Do I need to provide my Social Security number?"
At MyPaymentor, we're transparent: All initial checks are soft checks. No credit impact.
When Hard Checks Happen
Hard credit checks only occur when you: - Apply for a specific loan or program - Formally enroll in a debt consolidation program - Accept an offer from a lender
Even then, one hard check typically has minimal impact and the effect fades over time.
The Bottom Line
Exploring your options is the smart first step, and it shouldn't cost you anything, including your credit score. Use platforms like MyPaymentor that prioritize soft checks and transparency.
Ready to explore your options risk-free? Get started today.