How Checking Your Credit Score Can Actually Improve It
A lot of people avoid checking their credit because they’re afraid it might hurt their score.
But here’s the truth: checking your own credit never hurts your score.
In fact, keeping an eye on it can actually help you improve it over time.
The Myth: “Checking My Score Will Make It Drop”
This misconception comes from confusion between soft inquiries and hard inquiries.
- 🟢 Soft inquiries happen when you check your credit, or when lenders pre-qualify you for offers. They have zero impact on your score.
- 🔴 Hard inquiries happen when you apply for credit (like a loan, mortgage, or card) and those can temporarily lower your score by a few points.
So don’t be afraid to look! Checking your score is one of the best habits you can build.
Why You Should Check Regularly
- You Catch Mistakes Early
Credit reporting errors are more common than you think, and a single wrong account or late payment can drag your score down for years if you don’t spot it. - You Stay Aware of Changes
Your credit score can shift from month to month based on balances, utilization, or new accounts. Regular check-ins help you understand what’s working and what’s not. - You Protect Yourself From Fraud
If someone opens an account in your name, your credit report is usually the first place it’ll show up. Early detection can save you major headaches later. - You Build Confidence
Watching your progress (even slow progress) keeps you motivated. Every few points up means your hard work is paying off.
The Smart Way to Monitor Your Credit
- Use a trusted monitoring service (like the one we recommend at CreditNerds.com: checkmy3scores.com) that tracks all three bureaus.
- Check your reports at least once a month.
- Don’t stress over small score changes Look for long-term trends instead.
- Focus on healthy habits: on-time payments, low utilization, and no unnecessary hard inquiries.
Final Thoughts
Checking your credit score isn’t something to fear. It’s a form of financial self-care.
When you understand what’s helping or hurting your credit, you gain the power to make better choices and see faster progress.
At CreditNerds.com, we help people stay informed, confident, and in control of their credit, because the first step to better credit is knowing where you stand. Start your credit journey today.
