If you’ve spotted SYW MC/CBNA or SYWMC/CBNA on your credit report, it usually means you applied for a Shop Your Way Mastercard, which is issued by Citibank. That entry represents a hard inquiry—part of the process lenders use to evaluate your credit when you apply for new credit accounts.
Even if your application was denied or canceled, the inquiry stays on your credit report.
Why SYW MC/CBNA Appears on Your Credit Report
This code shows up when Citibank pulls your credit after you apply for a Shop Your Way Mastercard. These store-branded cards are often tied to rewards programs and retail discounts, but the credit check is standard—and it creates a hard inquiry on your report.
Hard inquiries are logged by the credit bureaus whether or not you’re approved for the card.
How SYW MC/CBNA Inquiries Affect Your Credit Score
Hard inquiries usually cause your credit score to dip by a few points. One or two won’t do much damage, but multiple inquiries in a short time can hurt your score more noticeably.
Lenders might see several recent inquiries as a sign that you’re actively trying to take on new debt. That could make them hesitant to approve you for additional credit—especially if you’re applying for a mortgage, car loan, or personal loan.
How Long SYW MC/CBNA Stays on Your Credit Report
The SYW MC/CBNA inquiry will stay on your credit report for up to two years. During that time, it will be visible to lenders who check your report, even though the impact on your score fades over time. After 24 months, it drops off automatically.
Keeping an eye on these types of entries is one way to manage your credit and avoid surprises when applying for future credit.
What to Do About Unauthorized SYW MC/CBNA Inquiries
If you don’t recognize the SYW MC/CBNA inquiry, take it seriously. It could be a reporting error or even identity theft.
Here’s what to do:
- Contact Citibank: Ask them to verify the details of the inquiry.
- Dispute the inquiry: If it was unauthorized, file a dispute with the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
- Watch for other signs of fraud: If you’re seeing multiple unauthorized inquiries or accounts, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze.
Can SYW MC/CBNA Be Removed From Your Credit Report?
Yes—if the inquiry was made in error or without your consent, you have the right to dispute it. You can handle the process yourself or work with a credit repair company for help.
Credit Saint is one of the top-rated companies for removing inaccurate or unauthorized items from credit reports. They’ve helped clients remove entries such as:
- Late payments
- Collections
- Charge-offs
- Foreclosures
- Repossessions
- Bankruptcies
Take the First Step Toward Better Credit
If negative items are dragging down your credit score, Credit Saint can help you fight back. They offer free consultations and personalized guidance to help you take control of your credit.
They even offer a 90-day money-back guarantee, so there’s no risk in seeing what they can do for you. Visit their website to get started today.
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