No credit history
Credit scores & reportsA situation where there is little or no recorded borrowing activity in your credit file.
Overview
If you have never used credit or had bills reported to credit agencies, lenders may have limited data to assess you.
This does not mean you are a bad borrower, but it can make approvals harder.
Why it matters
- Lenders may be unsure how to evaluate your risk.
- You might be offered lower limits or higher rates.
- Building small, positive history can improve access.
Quick tips
- Register on the electoral roll at your address.
- Use a credit builder card responsibly to create history.
- Ensure bills are in your name where possible.
FAQs
Is no credit history the same as bad credit?
No. It simply means there is limited data. Bad credit refers to negative events like missed payments.
How long does it take to build credit history?
It depends on what accounts you use, but regular on-time payments over several months can start building a history.
Related terms
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