Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Softsearch?
A softsearch is an assessment of your eligibility for credit, which is made without affecting your credit profile. This differs from a full credit search which is recorded against your credit profile. A softsearch allows you to assess your likelihood of acceptance for credit before applying and incurring a full credit search.
Will this affect my credit score
No, this is only a softsearch which is different to a full credit search and will not impact your credit score.
What is a Hard Search?
A hard search is just another name for a full credit search, which using data held at a Credit Reference Agency, is used to assess your suitability for credit. A record of your application for a loan will be stored by the Credit Reference Agency on your credit file when a full credit search is undertaken. Making multiple full credit searches could impact your credit score.
Do you leave a footprint on my credit file?
You will be able to see a search on your credit file but this will not be visible to lenders and it will have no adverse impact. You can do as many soft searches as you wish without it impacting your credit file.
Do you store my personal data?
Only for a 30 day period so that if you do another softsearch we don't incur the cost of another search.
Why do you need this information?
We need this information to enable us to locate your credit profile and produce your likelihood of acceptance score.
Do you charge for this service?
No, this service is completely free for you to use and you can use it as many times as you wish.
What is a Credit Reference Agency?
A Credit Reference Agency is an organisation that compiles information from companies that offer credit and other sources regarding individuals' credit applications and payment history. This information is used by lenders to assess the credit worthiness of an applicant.
Can I make an application in somebody else's name?
No, the information should only be completed by the main applicant. Using somebody else's personal details would be classed as fraud.
What can I do if you are unable to return an eligibility score for me?
This may be due to being unable to match your details at the Credit Reference Agency (CRA). In this instance we recommend checking that you have input the correct details as a first step. Beyond this it could mean there is an issue with your details held at the CRA and you should contact them to discuss this further. This tool uses data supplied by Experian. You can apply for a copy of your credit report online, or by writing to them at the address below.
Experian Ltd
PO Box 9000
Nottingham
NG80 7WF
www.experian.co.uk