A good credit score can save you thousands on a mortgage. The difference between best and worst rates on a £250,000 loan equates to £3,000–£4,500 per year.
What Affects Your Score
- Payment history (most important): Missed payments stay on your file for 6 years.
- Credit utilisation: Keep below 30% of your available credit — ideally below 10%.
- Length of history: Don't close old credit cards unless they carry a fee.
- New applications: Each hard search leaves a mark. Don't apply for lots of credit at once.
Fastest Improvements
Register on the Electoral Roll
Adds 50+ points at Experian. Free, takes 5 minutes at gov.uk/register-to-vote.
Reduce Credit Card Balances
Paying from 80% to 30% utilisation can add significant points within a month.
Check for Errors
Check all three files free: Experian, ClearScore (Equifax), Credit Karma (TransUnion). Errors are common and disputable.
Key TakeawayRegister on the electoral roll today — free, 5 minutes, and could improve your score by 50+ points immediately.
✦ Try the QuidCast Tool
Budget Planner
Managing your finances so you never miss a payment is the foundation of a great credit score.
💰 Open Budget Planner →