What does CB/VICSCRT mean on your credit report?
CB/VICSCRT is a code that appears on your credit report when you apply for a Victoria’s Secret credit card, which is issued by Comenity Bank. This code represents a hard inquiry made by Comenity Bank as they review your credit information to determine your eligibility for the card.
Seeing this on your report is normal if you’ve recently applied for a Victoria’s Secret credit card, but it’s important to understand how it can impact your credit score.
Why CB/VICSCRT Appears After a Credit Application
When you apply for a Victoria’s Secret credit card, Comenity Bank performs a credit check, which is recorded on your credit report under the code CB/VICSCRT. Hard inquiries like this are a standard part of the credit approval process, showing that a lender has reviewed your credit history.
Even if your application is not approved, the inquiry remains on your report, indicating that you’ve recently sought new credit.
How CB/VICSCRT Inquiries Impact Your Credit Score
A hard inquiry from CB/VICSCRT can cause a slight dip in your credit score—typically by just a few points. While one or two inquiries may not have a significant effect, multiple hard inquiries within a short period can add up and potentially lower your score more noticeably. Lenders might view several inquiries as a sign that you’re actively seeking credit, which could raise concerns about your financial situation.
To protect your credit score, it’s wise to limit your credit applications and apply only when necessary, particularly if you plan on taking out larger loans in the near future.
How Long CB/VICSCRT Stays on Your Credit Report
Hard inquiries like CB/VICSCRT stay on your credit report for up to two years. During this time, they are visible to lenders who may review your credit history when you apply for additional credit. Although the effect of the inquiry on your score lessens over time, it remains part of your credit history until it automatically drops off after 24 months.
Monitoring your credit report regularly helps you stay informed about these inquiries and manage your overall credit profile.
Addressing Unauthorized CB/VICSCRT Inquiries
If you notice a CB/VICSCRT inquiry on your credit report that you don’t recognize, it’s important to address it quickly. Unauthorized inquiries can sometimes indicate errors or potential identity theft. Here’s how you can handle the situation:
- Contact Comenity Bank: Start by reaching out to Comenity Bank to verify the details of the inquiry. They can provide information about whether the inquiry was made correctly or if it was an error.
- Dispute the inquiry with the credit bureaus: If the inquiry was unauthorized, you should file a dispute with the major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Removing unauthorized inquiries can help protect your credit score and ensure the accuracy of your credit report.
- Consider additional protective steps: If you suspect identity theft, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your report to prevent further unauthorized activity.
Can CB/VICSCRT inquiries be removed from your credit report?
If the CB/VICSCRT inquiry was not authorized or was recorded incorrectly, you can dispute it with the credit bureaus to have it removed. Taking action to remove unauthorized inquiries is important for keeping your credit report accurate and safeguarding your credit score.
If you find the process of disputing inquiries challenging, credit repair companies like Credit Saint can assist you. These professionals specialize in removing inaccurate or unauthorized entries from credit reports, helping you maintain a clean credit history.
They can also help you dispute following items:
- late payments
- collections
- charge offs
- foreclosures
- repossessions
- bankruptcies
To learn more, visit their website and fill out the form for a free credit consultation.
Improving Your Credit Score for the Long Term
In addition to removing inquiries, focus on adopting healthy financial habits to improve your credit score. This includes making timely payments, maintaining low credit card balances, and avoiding excessive debt. By being proactive and vigilant about your credit, you can work towards a stronger financial future.
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