Will a Chase credit limit increase use a soft pull?

You can get a Chase credit limit increase with a soft pull but only if Chase offers, not if you request it. If you ask for a higher spending limit, Chase will do a hard inquiry into your credit history, which will cause a temporary dip in your credit score. Chase basically needs to confirm that someone who asks for more spending power can handle it. But if Chase decides to increase your credit limit automatically, a hard pull won’t be necessary because cardholders must prove themselves by paying their bill on time for at least six consecutive months to be eligible.

That said, you only need to worry about a hard inquiry if you’re planning to apply for a mortgage, auto loan or new credit card account in the next six months or so. And a higher spending limit can help you make important purchases or reduce your credit utilization and ultimately improve your credit score.

Here’s how to get Chase credit limit increase with a soft pull:

• Chase will only do a soft pull if they offer you a credit limit increase. If you request one, they’ll do a hard check.
• Chase typically increases credit limits no more than once every six months. You can apply as often as you want, but you’re very unlikely to be approved more frequently than that.
• You’ll have the best chance of getting an increase if you use your credit card regularly and consistently pay your bills on time.
• Updating your income information on the Chase website will increase the odds of Chase offering you a higher limit with a soft pull.

Even though a Chase credit card limit increase requires a hard pull if you request it, it still could be worth it. If you’re a strong candidate for an increase, the opportunity to lower your credit utilization could be worth the temporary credit score damage.