Get Your Credit Report

What Is a Credit Report?

Mortgage One brokers are experts at deciphering Credit Reports and arranging Lenders according to Credit Scores.
A credit report contains detailed information about your credit history, including any credit you’ve held in the last six years. This includes credit cards, mortgages, loans, and other borrowing, as well as missed payments, defaults, CCJs (County Court Judgments), and bankruptcies. Lenders access this report when you apply for credit to assess your financial behaviour and determine whether to lend to you.

How to Get Your Credit Reports for Free

You can easily access your credit reports through several providers in the UK. Here are two we recommend, both offering free trials:

• Checkmyfile: Free 30-day trial, which gives access to your credit files. You can cancel at any time.

• UKCreditRatings: Free 14-day trial with access to credit files and extra features like dark web monitoring and a perks portal.

Both services provide multi-agency reports from the UK’s top credit reference agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can trial both services to compare and see which best meets your needs.

Why Download Your Credit Files?

Downloading your credit reports can help you in various situations, from preparing for a mortgage application to keeping track of your financial health. Here are some key benefits:

1. To Check Your Credit Score

Each credit reference agency gives you a score based on your credit history. Though it’s only a rough guide, it’s a useful tool when applying for finance. Keep in mind that some banks don’t rely on credit scoring and instead take a broader look at your credit profile.

2. Monitor or Check for Bad Credit

Many people are unaware they have bad credit. By downloading your credit reports, you can identify and monitor any negative issues, such as defaults or missed payments. Knowing when these issues will expire can help you plan for future applications.

3. Optimise Your Credit Files

Before applying for finance like a mortgage, downloading your credit reports gives you a chance to optimise them. You can challenge any inaccuracies or request outdated information be removed, which can boost your credit rating and improve your chances of approval.

4. Check for Fraud

If you suspect you’ve been a victim of fraud, downloading your credit report can help confirm this. You’ll be able to spot any unfamiliar credit applications and take action by contacting lenders directly to report the issue.

Download Your Credit Reports Today

Getting your credit reports is quick and easy. You can use the free trials from Checkmyfile or UKCreditRatings to download your files and review them.