What is a credit report?

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How can I keep my credit card secure?: Like anything, a credit card can be stolen or used without your knowledge, so follow these simple rules to keep your credit card secure:
How is interest calculated?: Interest is calculated on a monthly basis on the outstanding balance if full payment has not been received.
Where can I pay my balance?: You can pay your balance in a variety of ways, choose whichever best suits you:
Can I request a specific credit limit?: Your credit card issuer will normally set a credit limit for you based on your application details, credit scoring and credit rating.
How can I protect my Card repayments?: When you apply for a credit card, you will be offer payment protection insurance to pay via your credit card bill.

When you apply for credit, your credit history will be checked out before approving your application – and your credit card issuer will refer to one of the independent credit reference agencies.

The two major credit reference agencies in the United Kingdom are Equifax and Experian – they collect and report information about consumers' financial management. Their reports contain the same basic information: name, current and previous addresses, details about mortgages, loans, and credit cards and how they have been handled. Any late and missed payments and unpaid bills will show up on your credit report, as will public record information such as bankruptcies, county court judgements and applications for credit.

It’s not just credit card companies that make decisions affecting your future that are based on your credit history. Banks and other lenders consider your credit report when reviewing applications for mortgages or other loans, and sometimes Landlords will use credit reports to decide between rental applicants, and potential employers may even assess an applicant's credit report prior to extending a job offer.