How to Improve Your Credit Score UK 2026
Your credit score affects whether you can get a mortgage, the interest rate on loans and even some job applications. It is entirely within your control to improve it with the right steps.
Check Your Credit Report First
Get free reports from all three agencies: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Each lender uses different agencies so check all three. Dispute any errors — wrong addresses or unrecognised accounts — directly with the agency.
The Most Impactful Steps
1. Register on the Electoral Roll
The single fastest win. Register at gov.uk/register-to-vote — takes five minutes and can add up to 50 points to your score.
2. Reduce Credit Utilisation
Keep your usage below 25% of your available limit. If you have a £2,000 limit, keep balances below £500. Below 10% is excellent.
3. Pay Everything On Time
Payment history is the largest scoring factor. Set up direct debits for at least the minimum payment on every account.
4. Keep Old Accounts Open
Length of credit history matters. An old account with a clean record, even one rarely used, is positive for your score.
5. Limit New Applications
Space applications at least three months apart. Use soft eligibility checkers before applying for anything.
Score Improvement Timeline
| Action | Time to See Impact |
|---|---|
| Electoral roll registration | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Paying down balances | 1 to 2 months |
| Consistent on-time payments | 3 to 6 months |
Credit scoring varies between agencies. Individual lenders use their own criteria.