A "soft inquiry" is a type of credit check that does not affect your credit score. It occurs when a person or company checks your credit report for reasons other than lending decisions, such as background checks or pre-approved credit offers. Soft inquiries can happen without your consent and are often used by employers or credit card companies. Unlike "hard inquiries," which occur when you apply for a loan or credit, soft inquiries are less intrusive. They provide a way for lenders to assess your creditworthiness without impacting your overall credit profile. Examples of soft inquiries include checking your own credit report or a lender reviewing your credit for promotional purposes.