Dissappointed - Got Hard Pulled on a Kohls CLI.

[leo222]

I've recently been working hard on repairing my credit - I have spent a lot of time and money these past 2-3 months on paying down credit card debts that I've carried for a few years, due to having some difficulties with life/work.

I also wanted to increase credit limits to make my overall credit utilization look better. I had no issue getting CLI's with 3 other cards (one of them being another retail card, Macys). All of them got approved, except for Kohls...who did a HP with Experian. I thought it was ridiculous considering I've had a card with them for years, never asked for a CLI, and only asked for a modest increase ($700 to $1500). Frustrating to work so hard on repairing your credit score, and get a HP on such a measly CLI request.

[Remedios]

HP is always a possibility. While some lenders do not frequently go that route, you should always be prepared for one when asking additional credit be extended to you

Also, I'm not sure why you think HP is ruining your credit/effort.
You have a higher limit now, so your utilization will be affected less when using the card. If you're referring to points lost, that's the least of damage we can do to our credit, especially because points come back after a year.
The only way I know of never running a risk of getting a HP is by never applying and never asking for increases.


HP is just a cost of doing business. No one likes them, but if you have an active credit life, they are to be expected.
Enjoy your new limit.

[elixerin]

sorry this happened to you, assuming you got the increase you were asking for you score could very well just balance out.

Next time, look around the forum to see if the cards you would be attempting CLI’s for would result in HP’s or SP’s some do and some don’t, best wishes!

[Rebuild2019]

@leo222 did you call Kohl’s and request a CLI? When I try online it never gives me an amount to put in. I tried last month with them and only got a soft pull.

If you call in for a CLI I would definitely think that Kohl’s will pull your credit.

[Meanmchine]

Sorry you caught a HP for your Kohls CLI request. Although you only asked for a measly $700, that amount represents an increase of almost 100% from your original SL.  I had the same thing literaly happen to me with my rebuild except the lender was Synchrony/PepBoys. My SL as $1500, I asked for $500 more. Got approved with a HP. I got the same advice that people are giving you here.  Be prepared for a HP everytime.  Good luck in your rebuilding