How can I improve my credit score?

Every where you turn you hear and read about your 'credit score'. Credit scoring models are complex, can be difficult to understand and generally vary from creditor to creditor. Here are a few suggestions on how you might improve your credit score.

Check your credit report

You need to be sure that it is up to date and accurately reflects your circumstances. Keep on checking - your report changes when your circumstances change.

An easy way to see your report is to join CreditExpert, the online credit monitoring and identity protection service from Experian. Click here for a free copy of your credit report.

Set the record straight

If anything on your credit report needs updating, tell Experian and they will investigate. Follow this link to learn how to make changes to your credit file.

Don’t let debts pile up

Make your repayments on time - this shows potential lenders that you are likely to meet future repayments. Better still, try to pay off any outstanding amounts on credit card accounts completely.

Register to vote

Lenders check the electoral roll as a precaution against fraud, to ensure that you are who you say you are and live at the address you have given. If your name doesn't appear, lenders may not be able to confirm that you live at your address, so you could face ID checks or even rejection.

Protect your identity

If you notice something surprising on your credit report, such as a loan application you did not make, you could be a victim of identity fraud. Inform Experian, who will help to investigate and offer you help and advice.

Don't leave unnecessary footprints

When shopping around for credit, ask companies for a quotation before making a formal application. Lenders may interpret an abnormal number of credit application searches as indicating that you have applied for an unmanageable level of credit. They may even suspect fraud.

Tell the truth

Don’t lie or fudge the truth on an application form. Lenders find out and any inaccuracies on your form will tell against you and cause difficulties in future.

Click here for a free copy of your credit report