---
id: department-0024
title: "Should I get pre-approved for financing before I shop?"
category: department
subtopic: pre-approval
page_type: department
source_url: "https://www.castlevwcars.com"
tags: ["finance", "pre-approval", "pre-approved", "buying"]
questions:
  - "What is pre-approval?"
  - "Should I get pre-approved before shopping?"
  - "How do I get pre-approved?"
  - "Does pre-approval affect my credit?"
related: [financing-vehicle, credit-situations]
dealer: Castle Volkswagen of Schaumburg
---

Pre-approval is a great idea-it shows you what you can afford and puts you in the driver's seat when you shop. Instead of asking "Can I afford this car?" at the lot, you already know your budget and payment range.

**How it works:** you provide basic financial info (income, existing debts, down payment amount), and our Finance Department or a lender gives you a pre-approval letter stating your approved loan amount and approximate rate. It takes a phone call and a little paperwork.

**Why it helps:** Pre-approval speeds up the buying process-once you find your Volkswagen, we already know financing is in place. You negotiate with confidence. And if you're comparing dealers, a pre-approval letter carries weight.

**The credit impact:** a soft inquiry doesn't hurt your credit score. A formal application might cause a small, temporary dip-but it's worth it for clarity.

Ready to explore your options? **Call our Finance Department at (847) 593-4700** to discuss pre-approval, or visit **https://www.castlevwcars.com**. We'll walk you through the simple process.