How do I stop credit inquiries?

Question

I just got my credit report from [one of the big three]. Citi cards has been checking my credit monthly for the last two years. Seems to be the same company that's been sending me preapproved credit offers in the mail every week. Frequent credit inquiries can hurt your credit. How do I put a stop to it?

Answer 1

The credit inquiries that negatively affect your credit are those that are instigated by you seeking credit. When companies inquire about you to send you offers or to check up on you as an existing customer, your credit is not affected. However, if it bothers you, you may opt out by visiting this URL: www.optoutprescreen.com
You may opt out for 5 years or forever. Very often when you opt out, it can improve your score not because they are not inquiring for you but, statistically those who proactively opt out are better credit risks. (All other things being equal)
For more information you can refer to the site below.
Good luck!

Answer 2

Skeeter,

The inquiries do not hurt your credit report.

See it as a good thing, your credit is good enough for Citi to want to make you an offer!

Answer 3

Yes, you can opt-out of prescreened offers from the major reporting agencies by visiting the website below.

Also, those prescreened offers are reported differently than YOUR requests for credit (they should be under a different heading on your report). Prescreened offers don't affect your score in any way, only the ones you apply for.

Answer 4

No, inquiries do not hurt your credit. Banks and other credit institutions check frequently as a matter of business. Not to worry.... and there's nothing you can do about it anyway. How do I know? because I asked the credit bureau... think it was equifax.

Answer 5

you can not.