If you see SYNCB/HFT on your credit report, you might be wondering what it means and whether you need to do something about it. This guide breaks down exactly why it’s there, how it affects your credit score, and what to do if the inquiry wasn’t authorized.
What SYNCB/HFT Means on Your Credit Report
SYNCB/HFT appears when you apply for a Harbor Freight Tools credit card that’s issued by Synchrony Bank. It shows up as a hard inquiry, meaning Synchrony checked your credit profile during the application process.
Why SYNCB/HFT Appears
Hard inquiries are triggered when lenders review your credit to make a lending decision. In this case, SYNCB stands for Synchrony Bank, and HFT refers to Harbor Freight Tools. Whether you applied online or in-store, the credit check gets recorded under this code.
How a SYNCB/HFT Inquiry Affects Your Credit Score
A hard inquiry like SYNCB/HFT can lower your credit score by a few points. On its own, it’s not a major issue—but if you rack up multiple inquiries in a short time, it can make you look like a higher risk to lenders.
How Long SYNCB/HFT Stays on Your Credit Report
This type of inquiry can remain on your credit report for up to two years. The impact on your credit score, however, fades much sooner—most scoring models stop counting it after about 12 months.
What to Do If You Didn’t Authorize the Inquiry
If you don’t recall applying for a Harbor Freight credit card, it’s possible the inquiry wasn’t authorized. Here’s how to handle it:
- Call Synchrony Bank: Ask for details about the inquiry and confirm whether your information was used.
- Dispute the inquiry: If it wasn’t you, file a dispute with each of the three credit bureaus to have it removed.
How to Dispute SYNCB/HFT With the Credit Bureaus
If the inquiry is inaccurate or unauthorized, you can file a dispute directly with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Include any relevant documentation, such as an identity theft report or fraud affidavit, to support your claim.
You can also hire a credit repair company to handle the process for you.
Synchrony Bank Contact Information
To verify the inquiry or ask questions:
Mailing Address:
Synchrony Bank
PO Box 965035
Orlando, FL 32896-5035
Phone Number:
(877) 295-2080
Get Help Removing SYNCB/HFT From Your Credit Report
If you’re dealing with hard inquiries, late payments, or other negative items, Credit Saint may be able to help. They specialize in removing inaccurate credit entries—including SYNCB/HFT—and can guide you through the process.
They even offer a 90-day money-back guarantee, giving you extra confidence to get started.
Visit their website to take the first step toward a cleaner, healthier credit report.
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