How to Obtain an Individual Credit Rating in the U.K.

Credit ratings give guidance to a lender on the risk of lending money to you. Three credit reference agencies operate in the U.K.--Equifax, Experian and Callcredit. These are private companies that gather personal and financial history on you.. They sell this information to would-be lenders. Data held by agencies is either in the public domain or you have previously agreed to its release, usually on credit applications. The Data Protection Act entitles you to see information held about you within 28 days of applying.

Instructions

1

Ask for a credit reference report frequently to ensure credit will be available if and when you want it. Do this at least once a year. A good credit status means that more companies will be willing to lend to you, and you can shop around for the best deal.

2

Visit the Experian, Equifax and Call Credit websites and request reports from all three companies. Each company may hold slightly different information about you. You can receive a report for free--with strings attached--or pay 2 to each agency.

3

Obtain a free report by completing the company's registration form online. You will be asked for your credit card details and, after a free trial, automatically subscribed to the agency's more-detailed, paid-for service. Avoid paying by cancelling your subscription as soon as possible and within the time limit specified.

4

Complete and print an application form from each agency's web site if you choose to pay 2 for your report, . Post it with a cheque or postal order. The agency may--on a case-by-case basis--ask for further proof of your identity.