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Can't get accepted for a credit card to boost my credit file

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I have applied through a various amount of credit card companies to help me boost my credit rating, but they've declined my applications. What are my other options to improve my credit rating instead?

I have a mobile phone contract which am paying off, but that's about it. I'm also on the electrol roll.

Comments

  • Browntoa
    Browntoa Posts: 49,602 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    Well multiple declines for credit cards on your credit history aren't doing you any favours
    Ex forum ambassador

    Long term forum member
  • Stop applying, for now. All those searches won't help. Give it at least 6 months before you try applying again. Preferably a year, as that's when the searches will disappear from your credit files.

    What you need to be doing is looking at your credit files for reasons as to why you might getting declined. And you'll need to check the 3 main credit reference agencies: Experian, Equifax, CallCredit.

    Fortunately, you can get these for free:
    Experian: http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/creditclub
    Equifax: https://www.clearscore.com/
    Callcredit: https://www.noddle.co.uk/

    Go through all of those and check for adverse data (i.e. defaults, late payments, no electoral register, cash advances).

    It's important to remember that, without a credit history, you're extremely unlikely to get the best cards. So, if you're applying for 0% for 28 months, or things like that, stop. You won't get those to begin with.
    If all seems good, then you'll need to get a credit builder card or speak to your bank about getting a card. From there begin to build a credit history.
  • cjmillsnun
    cjmillsnun Posts: 615 Forumite
    Agree with the advice above. Stop applying for at least 6 months. Then before you apply again, use a credit card eligibility checker (the one here on MSE is good) to see which cards you are most likely to be accepted for. Apply for one of those.
    2.88 kWp System, SE Facing, 30 Degree Pitch, 12 x 240W Conergy Panels, Samil Solar River Inverter, Havant, Hampshire. Installed July 2012, acquired by me on purchase of house in August 2017
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