Does Affirm Do A Hard Credit Check

Ever wondered if Affirm, that handy 'Buy now, pay later' service, sneaks a peek at your credit score? Let's dive in, shall we?

First things first, what's a 'soft' and 'hard' credit check?

Imagine you're at a party. A 'soft' check is like a casual chat with the host - they might remember you, but it's not a big deal if they don't. A 'hard' check, on the other hand, is like asking the host to check their guest list - they'll definitely take note of your visit.

So, does Affirm do a 'hard' credit check?

Nope! Affirm uses a 'soft' credit check. Here's why that's awesome:

• No impact on your score - A 'soft' check doesn't leave a mark on your credit history. It's like that party chat - no one remembers it the next day.
• No surprise declines - Since Affirm doesn't do a 'hard' check, you won't get declined unexpectedly. They'll let you know upfront if you're not eligible.
• No credit history required - Affirm considers more than just your credit score. They look at factors like your banking history and income. It's like bringing a plus-one who's not on the host's radar, but still gets in!

But why does Affirm do a 'soft' check?

Affirm wants to make sure you can afford your payments. They use the 'soft' check to get an idea of your financial situation. It's like asking the host if you can bring a friend who's reliable and responsible.

What about other 'Buy now, pay later' services?

Not all of them are created equal. Some, like Afterpay and Klarna, also use 'soft' checks. But others, like PayPal Credit, might do a 'hard' check. It's always a good idea to check their policies.

Does Affirm Check Credit? - YouTube

So, should you use Affirm?

That's up to you! If you're responsible with your spending and want to avoid a 'hard' credit check, Affirm might be your new best friend. Just remember, it's still a loan, so pay on time and within your means.

And there you have it! Now you can chat about Affirm and credit checks like a pro at your next party. Just don't mention the word 'algorithm' - no one likes a party pooper.