Finance glossary
Soft Search
Also known as: Soft inquiry, Quotation search
In simple terms
A soft search is a light credit check that does not affect your score. It is used for eligibility checkers and quotes, and only you can see it on your file.
On this page
What does soft search mean?
A soft search — also called a soft inquiry or quotation search — is a light-touch check on your credit file. It is used for eligibility checkers, personalised quotes, identity checks and when you look at your own report.
Crucially, a soft search is visible only to you. Other lenders cannot see it, and it has no effect on your credit score no matter how often it happens.
How a soft search works
When you use an eligibility checker or ask for a quote, the lender runs a soft search to estimate whether you would be accepted and at what rate, without committing you to anything. If you then apply properly, that application uses a hard search.
Soft searches are recorded on your file so you can see who has looked, but they are ignored by scoring. Checking your own report is a soft search, so it never harms your file.
How could this affect me?
Soft-search eligibility checkers are a useful way to shop around: you can see your likely chances with several lenders before you formally apply, avoiding unnecessary hard searches.
A soft-search quote is an indication, not a guarantee. Your final rate and acceptance are only confirmed once you make a full application and the lender runs a hard search.
Things to watch out for
- A soft-search quote is only an indication — your real rate is confirmed at full application.
- Only you can see soft searches; they do not influence lenders’ decisions.
- Checking your own credit report is a soft search and never harms your score.
- “Guaranteed” acceptance claims are a warning sign — a genuine soft search cannot promise you will be approved.
General information, not personal advice
Consumer Credit is an independent information service. We do not provide regulated financial advice or sell financial products. For advice on your own situation, speak to an appropriately authorised firm or a free service such as MoneyHelper. About Consumer Credit.
Sources
We checked this page against these official and authoritative sources.
- MoneyHelper, Credit checks: hard and soft searches (opens in a new tab). Accessed 22 Aug 2026.