How do I increase my credit score?

Ceriedwards

Myself and my partner applied for a mortgage quite recently and it was rejected due to his credit score. Now we are financially linked due to the mortgage application being in joint names. This isn't a problem however, both of credit scores have now dropped significantly because of the mortgage rejection. My question is how do I get my score back up to where it was with out getting a loan or credit card, I detest credit cards and don't need a loan for anything. I am on the electoral roll, I have a phone contract, a car loan, and pay all my bills on time. What can I do! ????:(

[Deleted User]

The score is irrelevant. You're the only one who sees it, so you can tell people it's any number you want.

What makes lenders see you in a more positive light is responsible use of credit. So using a credit card regularly and paying off in full each month, is the easiest way to go.

But a fear of credit will hold you back.

james.maperson

A recent search is viewed as a negative by a lender, whether you were accepted or not, so its the mortgage search itself that has brought your (indicative) score down.
The financial link you mentioned from the mortgage means your partner's credit history can be considered as part of credit applications you make on your own from now on. If you haven't got any other joint credit, you could file a disassociation with the CRA, but be aware future joint apps will just put the association back in place.

zx81 is absolutely right with responsible use of credit, whilst many people like to use a credit card to do it, any active account that is well maintained will help how lenders view you. Phone contracts, bank accounts, storecards, mail order.

Thrugelmir

What's on your partners record. As that's where your problems lie.