Credit card eligibility checkers explained

An eligibility checker tells you how likely you are to be accepted for a credit card before you apply. It uses a soft search of your credit file, which other lenders can’t see and which doesn’t affect your credit score.

Soft search vs hard search

Soft search – used by eligibility checkers and when you check your own credit report. Only you can see it; it has no effect on your score.
Hard search – made when you submit a full application. It’s visible to other lenders, and several in a short time can make you look reliant on credit.

How to use one

Use the checker on the card issuer’s own website, or a comparison site that offers one.
You’ll give your name, address history, income and employment status.
You’ll see a likelihood of acceptance (sometimes a guaranteed or “pre-approved” offer, subject to final checks).
Only apply where your chances look good, to avoid unnecessary hard searches.

Good to know

A high score from a checker isn’t a guarantee – the final decision follows a full application.
The rate and limit you’re offered may differ from the representative example.
Many UK issuers, including large banks, have their own checker on their credit card pages.

QuidRadar doesn’t offer its own eligibility checker yet. We’re working on it – in the meantime, use the checker on the issuer’s site, linked from each card page.