Tips to improve your credit score
13 August 2021
You’ve been searching for the perfect home for a while and after a lot of time, effort and countless viewings you’ve finally found your dream home! It ticks all the boxes and is the perfect place to call home … but is your credit score ready for the move?
Having a good credit score is crucial to increasing your chances of getting a mortgage and is a key part of the application process of borrowing money. Essentially, the higher your credit score the better chance you have for being approved for a mortgage… meaning you’re one step closer to owning your dream home.
During the process of applying for a mortgage, lenders will also have the right to look at your:
- Credit history
- Bank transactions
- Income
- Employment
So, you might be wondering what you can do to improve your credit score? We’ve rounded up 5 quickfire ways to get your credit score in tip top shape
1. Pay your bills on time
One of the most important things you can do when thinking about your credit score is pay all of your bills on time. While it can seem easier said than done, it is essential that things like your phone bill, rent, council tax, internet and any loans are paid every month.
This shows that you are financially responsible and is an important part of a good credit score.
2. Get voting and registered on the electoral roll
If you haven’t signed up for the electoral roll, what are you waiting for?! This is one of the quickest ways to boost your credit score. Make sure to register with your current address, whether you live in a flat share or at home with family, it’s simple way to improve your rating.
To sign up to your electoral roll, click here.
3. Manage any existing debt
One of the best things you can do to improve your credit score is to control any debt you currently have. You might have debt from old credit cards or loans you’ve previously taken out, so it’s essential you work to manage any existing debt first.
Creating a monthly budget is a simple and effective way to manage your money and can help get you on the right track to improving your credit score. If you’re really struggling to pay off your existing debt, it is important to contact Citizens Advice.
4. Check to see if you’re linked to another person
Did you know that having a joint account with someone, whether they are a family member or partner, can impact your credit rating? Unfortunately, if the person you’re linked to as a poor credit score, this could change yours.
It’s important to have an honest conversation about credit history and any debt either of you may have before getting a joint account.
5. Triple check your credit file
Taking ownership of your finances is a great way to monitor and work to improve your credit score over time. An important first step is finding out what your current credit score is, so you can figure out the best ways to improve it.
There are lots of great ways to do this including:
- Experian, the UK’s largest credit reference agency, lets you check your credit score for free
- Registering with Credit Karma provides personalised ways to improve your credit score at no cost
- If you’re a Monzo Plus user, you can see your credit score directly in the app. This can help you budget better and allow you to take control of your finances through your bank account.
These are just a few ways to boost your credit score, whether you’re building it up from scratch or looking to improve your current score. Interested in finding out more?
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