Am I on a credit blacklist?
There is no credit blacklist. Each credit agency has files with credit records and the lenders make their own decisions about whether to extend credit based on the information on the file and the information they have about you on their own records and your application form. There is no blacklist as such.

Do other people influence my credit score?
The credit status of anyone else should not affect your credit rating or score. If information about anyone else with which you have no financial connection appears on your credit file you can ask for it to be removed by asking to be disassociated from them.

Why to credit application forms ask for previous addresses?
If you have recently moved, lenders will want to know your previous addresses, generally for the last three years, so that they can check that you really were living where you said you were. It can help your credit rating if you are registered to vote, as you then appear on the Voters Roll. This evidence of where you live is one of the factors lenders take into account.

Does it matter where I live?
The area or neighbourhood where you live does not directly change your credit score. Although lenders may have access to general demographic information it is ultimately the information about you that matters.

How do credit agencies calculate my credit score?
The credit agencies gather a wide range of information from different sources and use credit models to calculate credit scores. The exact methods are not disclosed but will be based on whether you are recorded at residential addresses, how long, your payment history and any defaults.

How can I improve my credit rating?
Stability and good records and prompt payments are the key. Being able to demonstrate who you are and where you live over a few years, along with a good payment record and no adverse information, will all help improve your credit rating.