There are different types of inquiries and some are nothing to worry about. The following is an example of inquiries and what they mean.

You reviewed your credit: This is where you have have requested a copy of your credit report. This is a “soft” inquiry and does not negatively affect your credit. It is not seen by potential creditors. (Neutral)

Credit Bureau Review: This again, has no impact on your credit and simply means the bureau reviewed your file. (Neutral)

Creditor review: This is simply a standard review that is done by existing creditors. It also does not impact your credit. (Neutral)

Credit Request: This can be negative if you have too many. Inquiries remain in your profile for 2 years, so too many of this type can be negative and result in denials. (Negative)

Collection agency review: Very negative. If you have any inquiries from a collection agency who has begun collecting on an expired debt (expired under the statute for reporting, which is 7 years) then that does not qualify for a permissible purpose and should be removed. Inquiries from a collection agency are very negative.

IRS: Very negative. Inquiries from the IRS usually tell a potential lender that you are either being audited or have a tax lien pending.

Tenant Screening: This type of inquiry is O.K. It simply shows you are moving or did move and the landlord ran a credit check. (Neutral)