 TITLE: Don’t Kill Your Credit Score: 5 Strategies to Help It Thrive CONTENT: 3\\. Do Not Apply For Too Many New Lines of Credit\n-------------------------------------------------\nWhile keeping a diverse credit mix is important, that doesn't mean you should go crazy and apply for every credit card out there. When you apply for new credit, typically the lender will request your credit report to help them make a decision. That check is called a hard inquiry, and these inquiries remain on your credit report for up to two years. Most hard inquiries will result in a small ding in your credit scores, though they are erased pretty quickly. But too many hard inquiries can have a negative impact on your scores.\nThis is especially important in the months before applying for a big loan, like a mortgage. During that period, you'll want to abstain from applying for new credit altogether so you can get your credit in the best shape possible. END