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Improving my credit score

5 replies

Ginghamcat · 03/04/2024 19:58

I have a credit card that I use for the same things each month, and pay off the balance in full by direct debit each month. My card issuer has just cut my credit limit to a quarter of what it was. I’ve spoken to them and I understand unfortunately they can do that, and why- an issue was flagged up to them by a credit reference agency.

I’m registered with 3 credit reference agencies, and only one has flagged this issue. However, in their ‘tips for improving your credit score’ I’m advised I could do better by applying for another credit card, my chances of being approved are ‘excellent’ and I could be approved for a credit limit of four times what it was originally.

It’s like they are saying, we think you are a bit more risky than before, but here, buy even more on credit and your score will improve! It makes no sense to me. Surely I would look like more of a liability? Should I really apply for another card?
Please can someone explain as though I’m five.

OP posts:
HagBitch · 03/04/2024 20:08

Why do you need to improve your credit score? Are you about to apply for credit?

And what was the issue that you mentioned? I haven't heard of a credit limit being decreased like this.

JosieJones1987 · 03/04/2024 20:08

What's the issue?

You need to get that sorted, because it could be a red flag to lenders

Mrsttcno1 · 03/04/2024 20:17

Yeah to give accurate advice we need to know what the issue was that caused your credit to be slashed. What was it?

Ridiculously, and dangerously for some, the best way to boost your credit score is to take on more credit and make consistent repayments.

Ginghamcat · 03/04/2024 20:52

Sorry, I didn’t realise it was relevant. Ten years ago I left an abusive relationship. I have a joint mortgage with my ex. I tried to sort things at the time legally but they wouldn’t co-operate with anything. Also the house was in negative equity. They have another partner living there, but have got into arrears numerous times. They can’t have a TOE because of that.

I haven’t paid towards it since I left. I fully realise I’m liable too, but some of the abuse was financial, and if my ex knows where I am or that I will ever step in and make payments, it will escalate again. (They gamble and use payday loans.) Plus, I have to pay rent. I believe it’s no longer in negative equity so I’m getting advice regarding forcing a sale.

Sorry for not disclosing that. It’s a huge trauma and there was no easy answer at the time, but I’m desperate to free myself from the situation.

OP posts:
JosieJones1987 · 03/04/2024 20:55

Ginghamcat · 03/04/2024 20:52

Sorry, I didn’t realise it was relevant. Ten years ago I left an abusive relationship. I have a joint mortgage with my ex. I tried to sort things at the time legally but they wouldn’t co-operate with anything. Also the house was in negative equity. They have another partner living there, but have got into arrears numerous times. They can’t have a TOE because of that.

I haven’t paid towards it since I left. I fully realise I’m liable too, but some of the abuse was financial, and if my ex knows where I am or that I will ever step in and make payments, it will escalate again. (They gamble and use payday loans.) Plus, I have to pay rent. I believe it’s no longer in negative equity so I’m getting advice regarding forcing a sale.

Sorry for not disclosing that. It’s a huge trauma and there was no easy answer at the time, but I’m desperate to free myself from the situation.

You need to speak to a solicitor, I know it's hard but that's going to be a huge blemish on your credit record

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