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Credit Scores

How UK credit scores are calculated, what affects them, how to check yours for free, and practical steps to improve.

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Your Credit Report And Your Credit Score

A complete UK guide to your credit report and your credit score. Plain English, no affiliate links, no financial advice.

6 MIN
Guides on this topic
Related situations All situations →
Tools & calculators
Tool
Borrowing Affordability Checklist
A structured checklist to run through before applying for any loan — to make sure you have considered the risks.
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Tool
Credit Score Improvement Plan
A personalised action plan to improve your UK credit score over 3–12 months.
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Key terms Full glossary →
CCJ (County Court Judgement) A court order issued in England and Wales when you fail to repay money you owe. A CCJ stay… Credit file (credit report) The record held by each credit reference agency of your borrowing and payment history. It … Credit score A number produced by a credit reference agency that summarises your credit history. Lender… Default A default is recorded when you fail to make repayments for a sustained period — typically … Hard search (hard credit check) A full credit check that leaves a record on your credit file visible to other lenders. Mul… Soft search (soft credit check) A credit check that doesn't leave a mark on your credit file visible to other lenders. Use…
Common questions
How do I check my credit score for free? +
You can check your credit file free of charge through Experian, Equifax and TransUnion (via their own sites or services like ClearScore and Credit Karma). You are entitled to a free statutory report from each agency.
Why do I have different scores from different agencies? +
Each of the three UK credit reference agencies — Experian, Equifax and TransUnion — has its own scoring model and scale. Lenders may use any combination of these, so focus on the information in your file rather than the number itself.
How long does it take to improve a credit score? +
Small improvements can appear within a few months of consistent on-time payments. Recovering from a default or CCJ takes longer — most negative marks stay on file for six years.
Does checking my own credit score affect it? +
No. Checking your own score or report is a soft search and has no impact on your credit file.
Related topics
Bad Credit →Debt & Debt Management →Personal Loans →