Current account not on credit report - does it matter?

mynameisclare

I am thinking of applying for a Halifax Clarity card to use on holiday, but I haven't actually applied for any credit before so I'm not sure what my chances are.

I already have one credit card back from 2007 when my bank practically begged me to take it, so I was pre-approved for that. The limit is £4000, and it has been paid in full every month. But my current account doesn't show up, presumably because it's about 15 years old! It has a £1500 overdraft limit, which I've never used. Will it matter if it's not on my credit reports? Will it help if I ask the bank to add it?

I'm going on holiday at the end of March - is that enough time?

Gromitt

Halifax seem to be VERY strict on who they allow to have Clarity cards, but it is an instant decision, so try it.

A cautionary note however: If you get it or not, write to experian and ask them to remove the duplicated searches from your credit report. Halifax typically leave 2 searches on your report each time you apply for a card.

callum9999

Gromitt wrote: »

Halifax seem to be VERY strict on who they allow to have Clarity cards, but it is an instant decision, so try it.

A cautionary note however: If you get it or not, write to experian and ask them to remove the duplicated searches from your credit report. Halifax typically leave 2 searches on your report each time you apply for a card.

Probably too late for the OP, but they tend to be quite loose with giving it out if you've had a well-managed current account with them for 6 months or so.

I got accepted (been rejected in the past) after running the Reward Current account for a year with no credit check (just as well!) and me only stating an income of £12k.

mynameisclare

Thanks for the replies. I'd like to be in the position to apply for a mortgage some time this year, so don't want to risk the credit search if they're going to be strict. Maybe I should go for a prepaid travel card instead?

callum9999

mynameisclare wrote: »

Thanks for the replies. I'd like to be in the position to apply for a mortgage some time this year, so don't want to risk the credit search if they're going to be strict. Maybe I should go for a prepaid travel card instead?

I assume you haven't already got a Halifax account then?

That could be the best way to go about it then - or open a Norwich and Peterborough current account. Their debit card is free to use abroad. If you go for their Gold Light account (no overdraft) they might not even credit check you, but you'd have to ask them first. Either way, I wouldn't imagine you'd have any trouble getting one of their accounts.

Or if you live in London or will be visiting London before you go away (they will issue you with your card there and then), you can get an account with Metro Bank.

mynameisclare

No I'm with Lloyds. I'm very happy with that account so don't want to faff about changing current accounts just for a card I won't need to use much.

Anyway, I decided to try applying after the moneysupermarket soft search thing thought I had a good chance with Halifax... and I was declined. Prepaid card it is. And I don't think I'll bother using moneysupermarket's advice again!