💳 Credit Score
How Credit Scores Work in the UK — Explained
Credit scores in the UK can seem mysterious. This guide explains exactly how they are calculated, who uses them, and what the numbers actually mean.
Likely causes
- Different agencies use different scales and methods
- Lenders may check one, two, or all three agencies
- Your score varies between agencies
- The score you see is not always the score a lender sees
Step-by-step fix
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1
Understand the three credit reference agencies
In the UK, the three main CRAs are Experian (scores 0-999), Equifax (0-1000), and TransUnion (0-710). Each collects data independently and uses its own scoring model.
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2
Understand what data they collect
CRAs collect: payment history on all credit agreements, your current and previous addresses, electoral roll registration, CCJs and bankruptcies, and credit applications (searches).
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3
Understand that lenders use their own criteria
The score shown by free services is an indicator, not the exact number a lender uses. Each lender applies its own internal scoring model on top of CRA data.
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4
Know what a good score looks like
Experian: 881-960 = Good, 961-999 = Excellent. TransUnion: 604-627 = Good, 628-710 = Excellent. Equifax: 531-670 = Good, 671-1000 = Excellent.
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5
Understand the 6-year cycle
All information on your credit file — both positive and negative — is retained for 6 years. This includes account histories, missed payments, and defaults.