Definition
Credit reference agency (CRA)
A credit reference agency is an organisation that collects and maintains data about individuals' credit histories. Lenders use CRA data to make lending decisions. The three main CRAs in the UK are Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Each holds slightly different data, so your credit score may vary across them.
Example
Checking your credit report with TransUnion via Credit Karma is free and does not affect your score.
Common misunderstandings
- There is no single universal credit score — each CRA calculates scores differently, and lenders may use any of them.
- You are entitled to access your statutory credit report from each CRA for free.