Store cards do hard credit pull

At the checkout, the clerk asks if you want a whopping 20 percent off your purchase. You only have to apply for a store card.

No matter how the pitch goes, there is one thing you should know: The store will pull a hard credit inquiry. A hard inquiry will generally lower your credit score.

According to Wallet Hub, there is really no such thing as a soft pull on a store card application. Store cards can have lower credit requirements or some bonus features, but they still pull your credit.

If you fill out an application at every store that offers a discount, you could be damaging your credit. Repeatedly applying for credit tells lenders you are in money trouble.

The pre-approved card offers usually give you a 90 percent chance of approval, but they still pull a hard credit inquiry.