Have you been refused credit recently?

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Being refused credit can be frustrating – but it can happen on any credit application you make, be it a credit card, loan, or new mobile phone contract. Not getting credit can be really inconvenient and affect your best-laid plans.

The situation can be made worse by not knowing exactly why a lender has turned you down, or if there is any action you could take. After all, you may think you’re creditworthy and not understand why you have been refused.

Being refused for credit does not, in itself damage your credit score. Whilst your credit report shows that you applied for credit, lenders won’t be able to see if you were refused.

The lender always decides whether to accept or refuse your application. If you’ve been turned down, only the lender can tell you why because only they know. If you ask, they should be able to give you the main reason. This is useful because it might identify actions you can take to address the situation – Understand how to .

Why have I been turned down for credit?

Here are some of the most common reasons why people get turned down for credit:

1. Your credit history could have late or missed payments, defaults or county court judgements

2. You’ve made multiple credit applications in a short space of time

3. There was a mistake on your application form. For example, if you live in a flat, your address may need to be written - “Flat A, 125 High Street” and not “125A High Street”

4. You may not be their target customer for example some lenders want to lend to those with high or low incomes

How can you increase your chances of being accepted for credit?

1. Try not to make too many applications if you can

2. Get on the electoral roll if you’re not already on it

3. Check your information is up to date and accurate

4. Make sure your financial associations are correct

5. You could start to build up your credit history with smaller forms of credit

6. You could check your Experian Credit Report so you can see the information lenders use

Your credit information is only one part considered by lenders for your application, as lenders also use the information provided on your application form, and information that they already hold on you (for example, if you’re applying through your existing bank).

If you’ve been turned down in the past, or you’re worried about being turned down, helps to find you deals that you’re more likely to be accepted for. Don’t forget, Experian are a broker and not a lender!

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