A personal loan soft search is an initial credit check used to estimate whether you may be eligible and what rate you might receive, without usually leaving a visible hard-search footprint on your credit report. It should not affect your credit score, although lenders may use different search methods, so check their terms before applying. If you proceed with a full application, the lender will normally carry out a hard search, which can be recorded and may affect your score. Compare lenders carefully and use FCA-authorised providers where possible.