What score should I aim for on mse pre-eligibility checker?

berrystraw

Advice gratefully received. What score should I aim for on the pre-eligibility checker before applying?

I have no debt, and annoyingly a missed credit card payment from 6 years ago or more...I no longer have a credit card.

The highest percentage I got on the checker yesterday was 70% but it was for a low credit score card with massive interest. Albeit I only want to pay off every month to build up credit worthiness.

The m&s card which would be preferable only came up at 50%.

Should I only apply if 90% or is a 70% or 50% viable? I'm conscious that if I apply and am rejected it will leave a bad mark on my credit. So it seems such a risk. Or am I over thinking it?

Apologies for the questions - I am very green financially but trying to get it together.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Edi81

Where is this pre eligibility checker? If it's with Experian, equifax or call credit it means nothing. They are not lenders.

Are you on electoral register?
Have you got up to date credit?
Any defaults or ccjs?

These are much more important than mythical scores!

Voyager2002

You are over-thinking it: one or two failed applications would not do any significant damage.

If you want to improve your credit rating then get a poor-quality card and pay off the full balance each month. That way you do not pay any interest and so do not need to worry about the interest rate. After six months of making payments on time you are likely to qualify for a more attractive card.

berrystraw

Thanks both of you for the replies - this has given me some clarity and feel more informed now. Cheers

Ps I was talkign about the moneysavingexpert tool...I was going to try experian too but seems not worth it now - cheers

Thrugelmir

berrystraw wrote: »

The highest percentage I got on the checker yesterday was 70% but it was for a low credit score card with massive interest. Albeit I only want to pay off every month to build up credit worthiness.

Everybody has to start somewhere. Perhaps better to obtain a loan for a major purchase though. There's always a danger with a credit card whereas a loan is a fixed committment.