Question about AMEX app

[Hokies2379]

So I may or may not have done something stupid, but that's irrelavant. 

When I applied for an Amex, why did they soft pull, then hard pull me?  I don't have an existing relationship with them.

Just curious if anyone knows.

[Anonymous]

Did you check for a pre-approval first?

If so, that may have been the SP, followed by a HP for the actual app.

[Hokies2379]

no, I didn't. just cold apped. (because I am a weak, weak man.)

[NRB525]

+1

If they send you marketing materials, they have found you. If you ask for a prequal, they know you exist. Card companies like to have some idea who they are sending offers to, so SP by AMEX and other CCC probably happens to more people who don't have an AMEX than realize it.

There's no penalty on your credit report, and in the long run it will help your AMEX relationship, getting them comfortable with your credit file on a regular basis.

[Hokies2379]

Oh I'm not worried about it.  I'm glad I'm on their radar.  But the SP and HP were done on the same day.  Just seemed kinda weird.

[OmarGB9]

Might be pure coincidence?