How to Check and Understand Your Credit Report (UK)
Learn how to get your free UK credit reports, understand the information, and fix errors to improve your score.
The Three UK Credit Reference Agencies
In the UK, your credit history is held by three main Credit Reference Agencies (CRAs). Lenders may check with one, two, or all three when you apply for credit, so it's vital to check your report with each of them.
How to Read Your Credit Report
Personal Information
Check your name, date of birth, and current and previous addresses are accurate. Errors here can cause issues.
Credit Accounts
Review all listed accounts (loans, cards, mortgages). Ensure balances and payment history are correct.
Negative Markers
Look for defaults, CCJs, or insolvency records. Check the dates are correct as they should be removed after 6 years.
6-Year Removal Checklist
Most negative information is automatically removed from your credit report after six years. Use this checklist to ensure your report is clean and up-to-date.
- Defaults (6 years from default date)
- County Court Judgments (CCJs) (6 years from judgment date)
- IVA (6 years from start date)
- Bankruptcy (6 years from start date)
- Debt Relief Order (DRO) (6 years from start date)
- Hard searches (2 years, but only impact score for 1 year)
How to Dispute Errors
If you find a mistake on your report, you have the right to get it corrected. This is known as raising a 'notice of correction' or a 'dispute'.
- Contact the Credit Agency: Each agency has an online dispute process. Clearly state what is wrong and why.
- Provide Evidence: If you have any documents to support your claim (e.g., a letter from a creditor), include them.
- Contact the Lender: It's also wise to contact the original lender who supplied the incorrect information.
- Wait for Investigation: The agency has 28 days to investigate and either remove the error or explain why it's staying.
For free, impartial advice on disputes, contact MoneyHelper.
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