Credit Score Basics > What is the most accurate credit score in the UK?

What is the most accurate credit score in the UK?

Wollit Team1 minute read · Updated 17th September 2024

There is no single "most accurate" credit score in the UK, as each of the three main credit reference agencies (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) calculate scores differently. This is why, to get the most complete picture of how lenders see you, it's best to check your credit report with all three agencies.

How do credit scores work?

In the UK, lenders report information about your credit accounts and payment history to one or more of the three main credit agencies (CRAs). Each agency then calculates your credit score based on this information, using their own proprietary methods and scales:

Experian scores range from 0-999, with 961-999 considered "excellent";
Equifax scores range from 0-1000, with 811-1000 considered "excellent";
TransUnion scores range from 0-710, with 628-710 considered "excellent".

So while the specific numbers may be different, if you have a score in the "excellent" band with any agency indicates you have a strong credit history and are considered a low-risk borrower.

Why are my scores different between different credit agencies?

There are multiple answers to this question.

First of all, each CRA collects information independently. Since not all lenders report to every CRA, one agency may have more complete information about your accounts.

Second, different lenders may report information at different times to each CRA, so a recent account may only appear on some reports.

Third, each of the three CRAs use slightly different scoring models and criteria, so the scores will vary even if the data is the same.

Finally, some CRAs are harsher than others. We’ve seen many people complain that Equifax gives much lower scores than Experian or TransUnion.

However, if there are only small differences between your scores, it's likely your credit history is in good shape overall. Bigger differences may mean you have errors or in one or more of your credit reports that you should look into.