Category
Credit & Borrowing
FLD is not a lender or a credit broker and does not arrange credit. This is general information, not advice to borrow.
Important: This guide provides general information, not personalised financial advice. Financial products, rates and eligibility rules can change, so check the provider’s current terms before applying. Some links are referral links — we may earn a commission. You can check a firm’s details on the FCA Register.
Quick answer
Thinking about a credit card, a loan or your credit score? Start here. This page covers how APR works, how lenders see your credit file and the catches to know before you apply.
The short version: there’s no single official UK credit score — each lender decides for itself. Representative APR on an advert isn’t a personal quote, so you may be offered a higher rate.
The three main UK credit reference agencies are Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Each keeps its own file on you and uses its own score scale, so your numbers will differ.
Use eligibility checkers (soft searches) before applying, and only borrow what you can repay. If debt feels unmanageable, free help is available from MoneyHelper.
Key decision routes
Pick the question you’re trying to answer.
Soft vs hard credit searches
| Soft search | Hard search | |
|---|---|---|
| When it happens | Eligibility checkers, checking your own file, some quotes | A full application for credit |
| Visible to lenders? | No — only you can see it | Yes |
| Affects applications? | No | Several in a short time can make lenders more cautious |
| Good for | Checking your chances before applying | The actual application, once you’ve chosen |
More in Credit score basics.
The catch
The rate you’re offered can be higher than the advertised representative APR. Every full application leaves a hard search on your file, and several in a short time can make lenders more cautious.
Interest can quickly wipe out card rewards and cashback if you don’t clear the balance in full each month.
Who it’s for — and who should avoid it
Who it’s for
- People comparing a card or loan they can afford to repay
- Anyone checking their credit file before a mortgage or big application
- People who pay their card off in full and want rewards
- Anyone trying to understand why they were declined
Who should avoid it
- Anyone borrowing to cover everyday bills or other debts — speak to MoneyHelper first
- People making several applications in a short time
- Anyone tempted by paid “score boost” products
- People who can only make minimum repayments
FAQs
Is there one official credit score?
No. Credit reference agencies each produce their own score, and lenders use their own criteria. See UK credit scores 2026.
Should I borrow because an APR looks fine?
Not on its own. Check affordability and the total amount repayable first. See APR explained.
Do eligibility checkers affect my credit score?
They use a soft search, which lenders can’t see.
Should I pay for a score-boost product?
No. We don’t sell them or recommend them, and you should be wary of anyone promising a guaranteed increase.
Where can I get help with debt?
MoneyHelper offers free, impartial help and can point you to free debt advice.
Decision guides
Get our weekly email
The Friday Finance Lowdown — five minutes of the money stuff worth knowing.
Free to join. See our privacy policy for how we handle your email address.