A report is not the same as a score
Your credit report records information such as credit accounts, repayment history and financial connections. A credit reference agency’s score is a guide, not a promise of approval. Different agencies use different scores, and lenders use their own assessments alongside income, spending and affordability.
Check your information
You can request a free statutory credit report from each of the three main UK credit reference agencies: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. They may hold different information. You do not need a paid subscription to access a statutory report.
- Check your name, addresses and account details.
- Raise inaccurate entries with the agency and the organisation that supplied them.
- Review unfamiliar accounts and outdated financial associations.
- Register on the electoral roll at your current address if you are eligible.
Soft and hard searches
A soft search is not visible to other lenders and does not affect your credit score. A hard search leaves a record that other lenders can see and may affect lending decisions. Several applications close together can be a warning sign to lenders.
Sending an initial enquiry through Kingsbridge UK does not run a credit search. Before proceeding to a lender application, ask what type of search will be used and when.
Habits that can help
Pay agreed repayments on time, keep borrowing manageable and avoid taking on credit you cannot afford. Improving a credit profile takes time; there is no guaranteed quick fix or guaranteed approval.
Kingsbridge UK does not provide a credit-score checker, credit monitoring or a credit-repair service. Checking your own report can help you understand your position before borrowing.
Independent information
General guidance, not personalised financial or legal advice. Check the latest official information and your agreement.
Experian — car finance credit and affordability checks MoneyHelper — money and debt guidance FCA — consumer information Financial Ombudsman Service