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What credit score do I need for a loan?

There's no magic number that guarantees you'll get a loan. Read this quick guide to see why your credit score still matters – and get tips to improve it.

What is a credit score?

Your credit score is a 3-digit number. It gives you an idea of how likely it is that you'll get a loan, or other credit.

If you want to get a loan, a good credit score could help. That's because it reassures lenders you'll pay them back.

A credit score is a snapshot of your borrowing history.

Your score depends on things like:

  • If you've ever borrowed before.
  • If you always pay back what you owe on time.
  • How much you owe.
  • How much of your available credit you're using.
  • If you're registered to vote.
  • Your previous credit applications.

3 myths about credit scores: 

1. It's a myth you have one credit score
There are 3 main credit reference agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Each scores you differently.  Lenders also use their own scoring.

2. It's a myth that income affects your credit score
Your credit score is only based on your borrowing. Yes, lenders factor in your salary, but it's not part of your credit score.

2. It's a myth that checking your eligibility affects your score
Your credit score is just one thing that lenders consider. So, what's the best way to find out if you could get a loan? Check your eligibility before you apply. This won't affect your score.

Check your eligibility without affecting your credit score:
Take a look at our loans

So, what credit score do I need for a loan?

There's no one credit score that guarantees you'll get a loan.

Especially as different lenders look at different things.

As well as your credit score, lenders consider:

  • Your income.
  • Your outgoings.
  • Your employment status.

These help them decide if you can afford to pay back a loan.

If you can – and you're eligible – your credit score could come into play.

What your credit score could mean:

  • Excellent credit score – you've got an excellent chance of getting loans at the best rates.
  • Good credit score – you've got a good chance of getting loans at a good rate. 
  • Fair credit score – there's a fair chance you'll get a loan. You might have fewer options and have to pay higher interest rates.
  • Poor credit score – you could still get a loan, but you might have fewer options. Lenders will look closely at your circumstances and if you can afford a loan.

 

NatWest customer? You can check your credit score for free in our app:

Check your credit score for free

 

Check your eligibility for a loan without affecting your credit score:

Take a look at our loans

Do lenders only look at your credit score?

No, lenders also look at:

  • Your income and employment status.
  • Your spending, including for any dependants.
  • How much you already owe.
  • If you can afford the payments.

NatWest customer?

Manage your existing NatWest loan 

What can affect your credit score?

Your credit score could lower if:

  • You don't make payments on time – if you miss payments, this could worry lenders.
  • You use most of your available credit – this could suggest you're under financial pressure.
  • You're not registered to vote – if you're on the electoral register, it's easier for lenders to verify who you are.
  • You apply for credit frequently – it could look like you're overstretched. Before you apply for borrowing, it could be a good idea to explore your borrowing options.

How to improve your credit score

6  tips to improve your credit score:

  1. Check your credit report regularly – so you can spot if there are errors, or info, you need to update. 
  2. Register to vote and keep your personal information up to date – so it's easier for lenders to check your identity.
  3. Make payments on time – setting up a Direct Debit to take payments automatically could be a good idea.
  4. Reduce debt if you can – over time, this could boost your score.
  5. Avoid making multiple credit applications – lenders are often reluctant to lend if you look like you'll be overstretched. 
  6. Check if you could get a loan before you apply – this won't affect your credit score. 

Check your eligibility for a loan without affecting your credit score:

Take a look at our loans

 

Can you get a loan with a low score?

Potentially, yes.

Credit scores are just one thing lenders look at. They also take into account your financial circumstances and if you can afford to pay them back.

Frequently asked questions about credit scores