If BRKSB/CBNA shows up on your credit report and you don’t recognize it, you might be wondering where it came from. Here’s what it means, why it appears, and how to get it removed if necessary.
What BRKSB/CBNA Means on a Credit Report
BRKSB/CBNA stands for Brooks Brothers/Citibank North America. It typically appears when you apply for a Brooks Brothers credit card, which is issued by Citibank. This entry shows up as a hard inquiry, which means Citibank checked your credit file during the application process.
Why BRKSB/CBNA Appears on Your Credit Report
If you recently applied for a Brooks Brothers credit card, this inquiry is expected. When you submit an application, Citibank reviews your credit history by pulling data from one or more of the major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion.
If you didn’t apply or don’t recall doing so, the inquiry may be a mistake or a sign of fraud.
How a Hard Inquiry Affects Your Credit Score
A hard inquiry like BRKSB/CBNA can cause a small dip in your credit score. Most people see a drop of just a few points, but multiple inquiries in a short period can add up. Lenders may see frequent inquiries as a sign of financial stress, which can make it harder to get approved for new credit.
How Long BRKSB/CBNA Stays on Your Credit Report
Hard inquiries stay on your credit report for up to two years. However, they only affect your credit score for about 12 months. Over time, the impact fades and eventually becomes negligible.
What to Do If You Didn’t Authorize the Inquiry
If you don’t recognize the BRKSB/CBNA inquiry, take these steps:
- Contact Citibank to ask for details about the application. They can help you determine whether the inquiry was legitimate.
- Check your recent applications or accounts to rule out a forgotten request.
- If the inquiry was unauthorized or made in error, file a dispute with each credit bureau that shows it. You can do this online, by mail, or by phone.
If identity theft is suspected, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze to protect your credit.
Can You Remove BRKSB/CBNA From Your Credit Report?
If the inquiry is inaccurate or unauthorized, you can request its removal through the dispute process. However, if it’s valid—meaning you applied for the card—it will remain on your report for up to two years.
Some people choose to work with a credit repair company for help. Companies like Credit Saint can assist with challenging questionable items on your credit report, including hard inquiries, collections, charge-offs, and more.
Get Help Improving Your Credit
If BRKSB/CBNA is just one of many issues affecting your credit, it may be time to talk with a professional. Credit Saint offers a free credit consultation to help you understand your options and take action. They even offer a 90-day money-back guarantee for added peace of mind.
Visit their website to see how they can help you take control of your financial future.
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