Credit referencing.

flogging_molly

I'm curious about something maybe the experian rep can shine a light?

My story is this from age 18-27 I was declined for credit and couldn't figure out why. I assumed it was to do with not having a job for long enough etc but two years I got my experian report and nearly had a heart attack. I could see my father's info (we share the same name) of course his DOB was listed properly. Lets just say he is awful with credit. I was given the reasoning that 'we must display information that may be relevant to you'.

I had my file updated and six months later got a tesco credit card. I've had this for fourteen months now. I was declined recently for an Argos card but am worried that due to lack of history, having effectively been denied the chance to build a credit history for 9 years. I feel a little done by due to my info being matched incorrecty.
Im now fretting as I intend to go for a mortgage in a years time. Has anyone else been in this position. Any advice to offer.

guesswho2000

Same (ish) situation! My and my father share the same initials (and obviously surname), which, unsurprisingly leads to discrepancies...

I'm guessing you're about 28/29 now? If so we're approx the same age - only difference being that I did the checking etc. when I was 18/19 - therefore was able to mash through the problems and build history.

However, this shouldn't be too much of an issue. Have you checked your files again recently? The fact you have a Tesco card is good, since they're (according to numerous sources on here) a fairly strict lender. What else is on your file that's in your name (current accounts, phone contracts, etc.)?

flogging_molly

I got a statuatory report two months ago. Which only showed my info. I have a credit card a mobile phone and an overdraft of £100. I had an increase from £400 to £700 on the Tesco card three months ago which I assume played some part in this. Its just frustrating.

guesswho2000

I suspect, in that case, that the reason for your decline was a lack of history, rather than poor history. Your limits seem to suggest the same.

I'm assuming you've no CCJs/Defaults/missed payments etc? If this is the case, then just continue using your Tesco card (if you aren't using it, then start using it for everything you'd use your debit card for) and paying it off in full.

The above will show on your report that you can handle credit properly - lenders like to see a couple of years of solid, well managed history before they start handing out larger amounts - such as a mortgage .