As you’ve likely heard, credit inquiries can hurt your score. Yes, inquiries only count toward 10 percent of your credit score, but too many can add up quickly and drag your score down. So, it’s logical to assume checking your own credit would have a similar impact. Thankfully, this is not the case.
You can check your own credit as often as you like without impacting your score. In fact the FCRA states you are entitled to one free credit report per year. The FCRA also protects your right to a free report when there is an adverse decision made based on what is in your credit reports, like being denied a loan or credit card.
Your official credit score, however, will cost you to get the official numbers. Fortunately, there are a handful of companies that offer free credit scores based on what is in your credit report.