 TITLE: What Happens When Hard Inquiries Are Removed From Your Credit Report? CONTENT: How to Minimize the Impact of Hard Inquiries on Your Credit\n-----------------------------------------------------------\nIt's important to do some comparison shopping when you're looking for a new credit card or loan. You may not be able to avoid new hard inquiries on your credit report, but there are a few ways to reduce the impact of shopping around:\n*   **Time your applications strategically.** If you're shopping for a mortgage or an auto loan, make all of your applications within a 14-day window. If you stick within this timeframe, all of your applications will be calculated as just one hard inquiry.\n*   **Apply selectively.** Reduce the number of applications you submit by getting selective about where you apply. Compare rates and fees first, and see if the lender offers prequalification. Prequalification can allow you to get quotes on interest rates, fees and loan amounts without a hard inquiry.\n*   **Practice good credit habits.** Virtually all other credit activities have a bigger effect on your credit scores than hard inquiries. Even if you have to add multiple hard inquiries to your reports, you can keep your credit rating high by staying current on loan payments and keeping your credit card balances to a minimum. END