Applying for a credit card can be a way to try and build your credit and enjoy the perks of having access to better credit offerings. However, before you apply, it’s important to use a credit card eligibility checker to avoid being rejected and potentially harming your credit score further. In this article, we’ll explore credit cards for bad credit in the UK and what factors you should consider.

Check Your Eligibility Before Applying

Many credit card providers in the UK offer credit card eligibility checkers on their websites, which is worth doing if you have poor credit as it gives you an indication of whether you’ll be approved before you commit to an application which will trigger a hard credit check and too many of these checks in a short period of time could affect your credit score negatively. Eligibility checkers are free tools that allow you to see if you’re likely to be approved for a credit card without affecting your credit score. This can be a useful way to get an idea of your chances of approval before making an application for credit.

For the check, you’ll typically need to provide some basic information, such as your name, address, and income. The lender will then perform a soft credit check, which won’t leave a mark on your credit report, and provide you with an indication of your likelihood of being approved.

Consider Credit Cards Designed to Build Poor Credit

If you have a poor credit score, you may find it challenging to get approved for a traditional credit card. In this case, you may want to consider applying for a credit builder card. This type of card is designed to help you build or rebuild your credit by offering a lower credit limit to deter from allowing you from overspending and higher interest rates.

Builder cards can be a good option for those who are new to credit or have bad credit. They often have lower eligibility criteria and can help you improve your credit score over time with responsible use. Always remember to make at least the minimum repayment in a timely manner and keep your credit utilization low for the best results.

Know Your Credit Score

Your credit score is one of the most important factors that lenders consider when determining your eligibility for a credit card. Your credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness based on your credit history. The higher your score, the more likely you are to be approved for a credit card and to receive favorable terms and conditions, such as a low-interest rate.

Before your application, it’s a good idea to check your credit score. You can check your credit score for free in the UK with credit reference agencies such as Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Checking your credit score beforehand can help you understand your creditworthiness and whether you’re likely to be approved for a credit card.

Understand the Provider’s Criteria

Different credit card lenders have different criteria for approving applicants. Some lenders may require a minimum credit score, while others may consider other factors such as your income and employment status. Before applying for a credit card, it’s a good idea to research the lender’s criteria to see if you meet their requirements.

You may be able to find out a little more about a lender’s criteria on their website or by contacting their customer service team. 

Do Your Research

If you are looking to rebuild your credit score, there are many options that can help you. Creating a monthly budget of your income and outgoings can help you to plan your finances. You can also use credit-building tools to document your monthly payments such as rent and mobile phone contracts that may not otherwise be documented on your credit file, this allows you to demonstrate you can make scheduled repayments to potential lenders and can improve your creditworthiness in the eyes of the lender.

There are many options out there and it is always best to do your research before committing to anything. You can seek free financial advice from charities such as Step Change and Money Helper.

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