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Credit is a tricky business. And when it comes to applying for credit cards, the stakes seem even higher. With every application, there’s a chance your credit score might take a hit. But what if I told you there are credit cards that offer a gentler approach? Welcome to the world of the best soft pull credit cards.
Soft Pull Vs. Hard Pull
Before we dive in, let’s clarify some terms. When you apply for a credit card, the card issuer performs what’s known as a “hard pull” or “hard inquiry” on your credit report. This is a detailed look at your credit history, and it can slightly decrease your credit score. On the other hand, a “soft pull” or “soft inquiry” is a more surface-level review of your credit.
Why Choose a Soft Pull Credit Card?
For starters, a soft pull doesn’t affect your credit score. This is especially beneficial for those with lower credit scores who are working to improve their credit. Plus, getting pre-approved for a soft pull card can give you a sense of confidence and security, knowing that you’re likely to be approved for the card without affecting your credit
So, the best soft pull credit cards can give you a bit of a break.
Are There Any Disadvantages of Soft Pulls?
Yes, there are also disadvantages to consider. Soft pull credit cards often come with lower credit limits and fewer rewards compared to traditional credit cards. Also, they are typically secured cards, meaning you’ll need to provide a security deposit.
Note: It’s important to remember that the impact of a hard pull on your credit score is usually temporary and diminishes over time.
Prequalification Vs. Soft Pull Credit Cards
It’s crucial to differentiate between prequalification and soft pull credit cards. Prequalification uses a soft pull to estimate your chances of getting approved for a particular card. If you decide to apply after prequalification, the issuer will perform a hard pull. However, with soft pull credit cards like the ones listed above, only a soft pull is required even when you officially apply for the card.
The Best Soft Pull Credit Cards of 2023
Now, without further ado, let’s explore the best soft-pull credit cards that you can find this year.
1. Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a fantastic option for those new to the credit game. Even beginners can often get approved, making it ideal for students or those with no credit history.
Pros
- No hard pull required for existing Capital One customers.
- Ability to earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
- Potential for credit limit increase after making the first five monthly payments on time.
Cons
- $39 annual fee.
- High APR of 26.99% (variable).
2. GM Rewards Card
The GM Rewards Card is a unique soft-pull card that offers not only approval without a hard credit check but also allows you to accumulate points for every dollar spent, redeemable against the purchase or lease of a new GM vehicle.
Pros
- No hard pull required.
- Earn 5% on the first $5,000 of purchases annually, and 2% unlimited earnings on purchases after that.
- No annual fee.
Cons
- Rewards are only redeemable against GM vehicles.
3. Apple Card
The Apple Card is a tech-savvy option that offers a soft-pull application process. This card is a fantastic choice for Apple enthusiasts who would appreciate a seamlessly integrated credit card experience within their Apple ecosystem.
Pros
- No hard pull required.
- Offering 2% Daily Cash back on Apple Pay transactions, 3% on purchases from Apple, and 1% on all other purchases.
- No annual, foreign transaction, or late fees.
Cons
- Cash back is limited if you don’t use Apple Pay.
4. PayPal Card
The PayPal Card is a fantastic soft-pull option for those who frequently use PayPal for transactions. It offers a simple and straightforward application process with the potential to earn cash back on purchases.
Pros
- No hard pull required.
- Earn 2% cash back on every purchase.
- No annual fee.
Cons
- Cash back can only be redeemed into a PayPal account.
5. Self – Credit Builder Account with Secured Visa® Credit Card
The Self – Credit Builder Account is a unique product designed to help you build credit over time. After making three consecutive monthly payments on time and having at least $100 in savings, you automatically qualify for a Self Visa Credit Card without a hard inquiry.
Pros
- No hard pull required.
- Helps build credit over time.
- Flexible payment options.
Cons
- $25 annual fee.
- Limited to users of the Self credit-builder loan.
6. Amex Everyday Credit Card
The Amex Everyday Credit Card is perfect for those who want to earn rewards points on everyday purchases without a hard credit check.
Pros
- No hard pull required for existing Amex customers.
- Earn 2x points at U.S. supermarkets and 1x points on other purchases.
- No annual fee.
Cons
- Lower rewards rate on non-supermarket purchases.
7. Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express Card is a fantastic choice for frequent Delta flyers who want to earn miles on their purchases without a hard credit check.
Pros
- No hard pull required for existing Amex customers.
- Earn 2x miles on Delta purchases and at restaurants worldwide, 1x miles on all other eligible purchases.
- No annual fee.
Cons
- No premium Delta travel benefits.
8. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card is an excellent choice for loyal Marriott guests who want to earn points on their stays without a hard credit check.
Pros
- No hard pull required for existing Amex customers.
- Earn 6x points at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program, 3x points at U.S. restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines, 2x points on all other purchases.
Cons
- $450 annual fee.
- Limited to Marriott guests to maximize benefits.
9. Hilton Honors American Express Card
The Hilton Honors American Express Card is an excellent soft-pull credit card for dedicated Hilton guests who want to earn points on their stays without a hard credit check.
Pros
- No hard pull required for existing Amex customers.
- Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio, 5x points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations, 3x points on all other eligible purchases.
Cons
- No annual fee.
- Limited to Hilton guests to maximize benefits.
10. Cash Magnet® Card from American Express
The Cash Magnet® Card from American Express is a solid choice for those who want a simple cash back card without a hard credit check.
Pros
- No hard pull required for existing Amex customers.
- 1.5% cash back on every purchase.
- No annual fee.
Cons
- No bonus categories for cash back.
11. OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
The OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card stands out for its educational resources, which can guide you on your credit-building journey. The card doesn’t require a hard credit check, but you’ll need to provide a security deposit that determines your credit limit.
Pros:
- Active online community for advice and support.
- Reports to all three major credit bureaus.
Cons:
- An annual fee of $35.
- No rewards program.
12. First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard® Secured Credit Card
The First Progress Platinum Prestige Mastercard® Secured Credit Card offers a low APR, making it an attractive option for those who might carry a balance. It requires no credit check, and your credit limit is determined by your refundable security deposit.
Pros:
- Low APR of 14.99%.
- Reports to all three major credit bureaus.
Cons:
- A high annual fee of $49.
- No rewards program.
13. Applied Bank® Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® Credit Card
The Applied Bank® Secured Visa® Gold Preferred® Credit Card boasts a low fixed APR and does not require a credit check. Your credit limit is determined by your refundable security deposit.
Pros:
- Low fixed APR of 9.99%.
- No penalty rate for late payments.
Cons:
- An annual fee of $48.
- No rewards program.
Wrapping It Up
While the best soft pull credit cards may not offer the lucrative rewards and high credit limits of traditional credit cards, they can be a valuable tool for those looking to build or repair their credit without the risk of a hard credit pull.
Whether you have poor credit or are just starting your credit journey, these cards offer a gentler approach to credit card approval. Remember, the journey to good credit is a marathon, not a sprint. So, take your time, make informed decisions, and your credit score will thank you in the long run!
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is based on independent research and is provided as a guide only. Always read the terms and conditions of any credit card before applying. The editorial content on this page is based solely on the objective assessment of our writers and is not driven by advertising dollars. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners.
Editor’s note: The information related to the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card, GM Rewards Card, Apple Card, PayPal Card, Self – Credit Builder Account with Secured Visa® Credit Card, Amex Everyday Credit Card, Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express Card, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card, Hilton Honors American Express Card, and Cash Magnet® Card from American Express has been collected independently by our team, and the card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.
