No credit history?

mountain_tramp

Hi everyone,

I'm hoping someone can help.

A bit about me - I ended up taking out around four credit cards when I was about 18. I was young and stupid and it was easy money. I got into terrible debt with them, and all four were passed onto different 'collection agencies'. I'm pleased to say that ten years later I pay off the agreed monthly payment which each of them, and have for some time.

I have been working overseas for the last three years, and on returning to the UK have lived at a couple of addresses, but only for a month or so whilst getting on my feet. I don't believe I am on the electoral role having been away for so long.

I would like to take out a credit card to rebuild my history, and also as it cost me a fortune to move back to the UK I don't have any savings behind me. I would like a credit card just as a safety net in case I need any repairs on my car for example whilst I'm getting myself sorted.

I am in work so have considered a payday loan if necessary, but a credit card seems a better option giving the APR of the pay day loans.

I used the eligibility calculator on this site, as a soft search, as I don't want to apply and be rejected and further damage my credit rating.

However, upon filling it in it states that 'my credit details cannot be found at the credit bureau. Please check and try again'.

I'm assuming that perhaps being away, my details may have been wiped?
I even tried my old address (where all the credit cards were registered), but the same thing happened.

If anyone can advise what to do next that would be a great help...I'm reluctant to apply to a card company unless I am fairly certain of acceptance, as I don't want to apply for several at once.

Cheers!

Alexd52

First thing is to get on the electoral role, without this your chances will be pretty much zero. Once on (and confirmed) you may need to leave it for a few months to show some stability, then try your own bank.

Please steer well away from payday loans, they will do your credit file more harm!

mountain_tramp

Thanks for the info! Payday loans were just something I would consider in an emergency, but not something I was planning to do, I have heard how bad they are!