Millions of Brits are unknowingly sabotaging their credit scores
A fresh study by free credit‑score service CredAbility shows that countless UK folks are accidentally hurting their credit – no wonder they’re paying higher interest, missing out on mortgages, loans, and even good phone deals.
Key findings
- 16.6 million people – almost one third of the UK – have never even peered at their score.
- 11.6 million people (21%) admit they’re clueless about improving it.
- 6.6 million (12%) have been rejected by lenders and don’t know why.
“Accidental bad credit” – the reality
Aaron Peake, CredAbility’s credit‑score guru, says those everyday habits turn faceless fans into “unintentional credit saboteurs.”
Hidden credit blunder #1: Cash withdrawals on a credit card
“About 15.5 million Brits (28%) still think pulling cash from a card is harmless,” warns Peake. The truth: any card‑cash takes high interest from day one, flags lenders, and can dent your score by up to 95 points.
Hidden credit blunder #2: Too many applications at once
“7.2 million (13%) believe that flooding the bank with applications will boost their score.” Each hard pull stays on your file for six months; piling them up can lower your score by as many as 125 points. A quick soft check via an eligibility checker keeps your score safe.
Hidden credit blunder #3: Relying on Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL)
“8.8 million (16%) think BNPL actually helps their credit,” but the risk of missed payments, late fees, and even legal action can pile up and wreck your credit.
Everyday choices that shape your future
With more households carrying debt from month to month, the impact of daily financial moves on your future has never been more critical. Small slip‑ups can turn into giant score drops.
Take control now!
Don’t let another casual habit sabotage your dreams. Check your score, plan your credit requests, and stay ahead. Stay informed, avoid costly surprises, and keep your path to loans, homes, and gadgets clear.
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