In the UK, credit reference agencies (CRAs) compile all the information on how you manage credit and make payments. Each agency holds a credit report on you, although some of the information may differ in each one.
There’s three main agencies like this;
- Experian
- Equifax
- TransUnion UK (formerly Callcredit)
Here's what information is shown on these reports:
A list of your credit accounts
Including bank and credit card accounts as well as other credit arrangements, such as outstanding loan agreements or utility company bills. It will show whether you have made repayments on time, and in full.
Important note: Any missed or late payments will show on your credit report for at least six years.
‘Financial associations’
These are people who are financially linked to you, through things like joint accounts or joint credit cards, mortgages etc.
Public record information
County Court Judgements (CCJs), house repossessions, bankruptcies, Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs) will all stay on your report for 6 years.
Overdrafts
If you have an overdraft on your current account, this information is shown on your credit report.
Personal information
As you would expect, things like; your name, date of birthday and address history are all shown on your credit report.
Things that aren’t included – salary, religion or criminal record.
Important note: Being on the electoral register is also shown, and registering can be an easy way to boost your credit score.
Fraud
If you’ve committed fraud, or someone has stolen your identity and committed fraud, this is held on your credit report.
If you spot any errors on your file then head over to our article on How to correct any problems on your credit report
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