Credit files 101: what's on them and how to read them
Experian, Equifax and TransUnion each hold a slightly different file. Here's what's on each and how to spot errors.
The three agencies
The UK has three Credit Reference Agencies (CRAs): **Experian, Equifax, TransUnion**. Lenders report to one, two or all three — so your files won't be identical.
What's actually on the file
- Account list (open + closed within 6 years).
- Payment history, month by month.
- Defaults, CCJs, IVAs, bankruptcies.
- Hard searches in the last 12 months.
- Electoral roll and address links.
- Financial associations (joint accounts).
What's not on it
- Your salary.
- Your savings.
- Whether you've paid rent (unless explicitly reported).
- Most utility bills (water rarely; broadband sometimes).
How to get them free
You have a statutory right to your file. Use **CheckMyFile** or the agencies' own free tiers. Pull all three at least once — many people only check one and miss errors elsewhere.
Common errors worth disputing
- Wrong default date (resets the 6-year clock — important).
- Duplicate defaults from a debt sold to a collector.
- Accounts older than 6 years that haven't dropped off.
- Wrong address links to people you don't know.