Who can see my credit score and credit report?

If you are researching your credit score, you might be curious about who else has access to it. Your credit score is part of a report that lists your credit history, which is also used to help calculate your score. In most cases, lenders use both the credit score and credit report to determine whether or not they will approve any application that you make for a loan or credit. However, lenders are not the only people who can access all, or parts of your credit file.

Read on below to find out more about who can see your credit score.

Who can see my credit score and credit report?

Your credit score comes as part of a report, also known as your credit report. However, you aren’t the only one who can see the contents of this report. Your credit record is one of the most important factors that will decide whether or not you are approved for a loan. It contains your credit history, which is often summed up in one number, which is your credit score. A credit score tells banks and lenders everything they need to know about your financial habits. It can signify how trustworthy and committed you are when it comes to your finances. Your credit score will help lenders decide whether or not to lend to you.

When you apply for a loan or credit, your lender will have access to your credit report. They may be able to see the following:

Loan enquiries that you have made in the last five years
Details of your current debts, such as loans or credit cards
Debts that are overdue
Your history of applying for credit cards and loans
Types of credit you have been approved for in the last two years
The amounts of your usual repayments in terms of loans and credit cards
Frequency of your repayments in relation to loans and credit cards
Current credit card limits

Your current lender or any potential lenders that you have applied for credit with can access both your credit score and credit report to determine your creditworthiness. Your credit history is a major factor in determining whether a lender will approve a loan or credit card, and the terms of that loan or credit card. The better your credit score is, the more likely you are to get approved for a loan with good terms attached to it.

When you set up utilities or mobile phone and internet services, the utility company may pull your credit reports or do a credit check on you to determine if you are a risk of not meeting your repayments.

Debt collectors may also check your credit reports for contact information, or data about your account activity. This may assist the agency in contacting you and assessing whether you’ll be able to pay the balance you owe. However, debt collectors can usually only access your credit file through the lender that you owe.

Landlords can also request a copy of your report to see your credit history and determine your ability to pay rent. However, agents or landlords can usually only access The Public Record Information part of your report. This part may include listings of court judgements in relation to debt or bankruptcy.

Does a credit check affect my credit score?

Checking your own credit usually does not affect your credit score. Accessing your own report is considered a soft inquiry, and will generally not impact your score. Inquiries that are made in relation to a new credit application are known as hard enquiries and may remain on your credit report for up to two years. Hard inquiries have the potential to impact your score.

How we can help

Tiger Finance can help you to find out your credit score. Try our credit score calculator today to find out your numbers. If you’re looking for a loan, we can help to get you funded in four easy steps. You will have a free consultation with one of our specialists, and we will tailor-make you a loan. We will negotiate with lenders on your behalf before you are approved. Call to speak to one of our loan specialists today for your free consultation.