Which Credit Report Agency Should You Use?

If you’re trying to figure out which credit report agency you should use in the UK, you’re already on the right track. Your credit report is one of the key things lenders look at when deciding whether to offer you credit — and on what terms. From mortgages to mobile phone contracts, it all plays a part.

With several agencies out there, each offering different scores and tools, it can be a bit confusing. Here’s a clear, plain-English guide to help you choose the right one.

What Is a Credit Report?

A credit report is a record of your financial history. It shows how you’ve managed credit in the past — including loans, credit cards, mortgages, payment history, defaults, and more. It also includes personal details like your address and whether you’re on the electoral roll.

Lenders use this information to judge how risky it might be to lend you money. A clean credit file with a good score usually means better deals and lower interest rates.

The Main Credit Report Agencies in the UK

There are three main credit reference agencies (CRAs) in the UK, plus one unique service that combines them:

• Experian
• Equifax
• TransUnion
• Checkmyfile (combines data from all three major CRAs plus Crediva)

Let’s take a look at what each offers.

Experian

• One of the most widely used by UK lenders.
• Credit score range: 0–999
• Free access: You can check your Experian score for free through their website or via MoneySavingExpert’s Credit Club.
• Full report: Requires a paid subscription directly with Experian, but some details can be accessed for free via partner sites.

Best for: Seeing what many lenders see when you apply for credit.

Equifax

• Used by a large number of lenders.
• Credit score range: 0–1,000
• Free access: Available through ClearScore, which updates weekly and offers helpful tips to improve your score.
• Direct access: Also available from Equifax itself, but with limited free use.

Best for: Regular free updates and easy-to-use mobile access via ClearScore.

TransUnion

• Used by some lenders, especially for credit cards and short-term loans.
• Credit score range: 0–710
• Free access: You can view your TransUnion score and report via Credit Karma (formerly Noddle).
• Helpful features: Credit Karma also shows approval odds for credit products based on your profile.

Best for: Comparing personalised credit card or loan offers alongside your report.

Checkmyfile

• Unique offering: Shows information from all four agencies — Experian, Equifax, TransUnion and Crediva — in one combined report.
• Free trial: 30-day free trial (then £14.99 a month if you don’t cancel).
• Score types: Provides detailed breakdowns from each agency.
• Trusted by mortgage brokers: Often recommended if you’re applying for a mortgage and want a complete picture.

Best for: Getting a full, side-by-side view of all your credit reports at once.

Should You Use Just One — or All?

If you’re just starting out or keeping an eye on things monthly, using one free service like ClearScore or Credit Karma is fine. But if you’re about to apply for a mortgage or want to spot errors across the board, checking all three agencies — or using Checkmyfile to see them all in one place — is a smart move.

So, which credit report agency should you use? Here’s the takeaway:

• Just want to track your score regularly? Go with ClearScore (Equifax) or Credit Karma (TransUnion) — both free and simple.
• Want to see what most lenders see? Experian is your best bet.
• Want the full picture in one go? Use Checkmyfile — it’s especially handy before a big application like a mortgage.

Remember, there’s no harm in checking your report — it won’t affect your score. In fact, keeping an eye on it can help you spot mistakes early and improve your chances of getting approved when it matters most.

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