Have you ever wondered why your credit score is not as high as you expected, despite paying your bills on time and managing your finances responsibly? One possible reason could be the number of credit inquiries on your credit report. Multiple credit inquiries within a short time frame can signal financial instability and lower your credit score. It is essential to limit credit inquiries to maintain a healthy credit profile.

What exactly are credit inquiries? When you apply for credit, such as a credit card, loan, or mortgage, the lender or financial institution requests your credit report from one or more credit bureaus to assess your creditworthiness. These requests are recorded as credit inquiries on your credit report. While a single credit inquiry may not significantly impact your credit score, multiple inquiries within a short period can raise concerns among lenders.

To prevent unnecessary damage to your credit score, follow these tips to limit credit inquiries:

1. Apply for credit when needed: Before applying for any new credit, carefully consider if it is necessary. Applying for credit impulsively or without a genuine need can lead to unnecessary credit inquiries. Only apply for credit when you genuinely need it, ensuring that you have a clear plan for repayment.

2. Research and compare: Before applying for credit, take the time to research and compare different options. Look for lenders or financial institutions that offer competitive interest rates, favorable terms, and a good reputation. By doing your homework, you can narrow down your options and minimize the need for multiple credit applications.

3. 了解預審選項：許多貸款機構提供預審選項，無需進行硬性信用查詢即可幫助您評估貸款核准的可能性。預審允許您提供一些基本的財務信息，貸款機構會對您的資格進行初步評估。透過此選項，您可以避免不必要的信用查詢，直到您對獲批的可能性充滿信心。

4. 短時間內合併信用查詢：如果您正在申請抵押貸款或汽車貸款，信用評分模型通常會將短時間內來自不同貸款機構的多次查詢視為一次查詢。利用此「利率比較」機制，最大限度地減少對您信用評分的影響。確保所有查詢都在14-45天的窗口期內完成（具體時間取決於信用評分模型），這樣才能被視為一次查詢。

5. 定期查看信用報告：密切注意您的信用報告至關重要，這能確保信用查詢的準確性和透明度。每年從三大信用機構——Equifax、Experian 和 TransUnion——各獲取一份免費的信用報告。檢查是否有任何未經授權的查詢或錯誤，如有必要，請提出異議。



By limiting unnecessary credit inquiries, you can protect your credit score and maintain financial stability. Remember that your credit score is a crucial factor in determining your eligibility for credit and interest rates. By demonstrating responsible credit behavior and managing credit inquiries effectively, you can achieve a strong credit profile and secure your financial future.