Key facts (2026): Each UK credit reference agency uses a different scoring scale. Experian scores range from 0–999 (good: 881–960; excellent: 961–999). Equifax scores 0–700 (good: 420–465; excellent: 466–700). TransUnion scores 0–710 (good: 566–603; excellent: 628–710). These consumer scores are indicative — lenders use their own internal scoring.
Three main credit reference agencies operate in the UK — Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion — and each calculates your score differently using slightly different data. Your score with one agency may differ from another. Understanding what good means on each scale, and how to check your score for free, helps you monitor your creditworthiness effectively.
Credit Score Ranges by Agency 2026
Experian (0–999): Very Poor 0–560; Poor 561–720; Fair 721–880; Good 881–960; Excellent 961–999. Equifax (0–700): Very Poor 0–279; Poor 280–379; Fair 380–419; Good 420–465; Excellent 466–700. TransUnion (0–710): Very Poor 0–550; Poor 551–565; Fair 566–603; Good 604–627; Excellent 628–710.
How to Check Your Score for Free
Experian: free basic score via experian.co.uk; full report via MSE Credit Club (free, via Experian data). Equifax: free via Clearscore (updates weekly, uses Equifax data). TransUnion: free via Credit Karma UK or Noddle. Checking your own credit score or report is a soft search and does not affect your score.
Why Scores Differ Between Agencies
Not all lenders report to all three agencies — some only report to one or two. The timing of updates differs. Each agency uses a slightly different scoring algorithm. This means your score genuinely varies between agencies. Checking all three gives the most complete picture — and any significant discrepancy may indicate an error worth investigating.
Our Verdict
Your consumer credit score is a useful indicator of creditworthiness but lenders use their own proprietary scoring systems rather than the consumer-facing numbers directly. Focus less on hitting a specific number and more on the underlying factors: clean payment history, low utilisation, no CCJs or defaults, and a stable address history. These factors drive good scores on all three agencies' scales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good Experian credit score UK?
881–960 is Good; 961–999 is Excellent on the Experian 0–999 scale.
How do I check my credit score for free UK?
Experian via MSE Credit Club; Equifax via Clearscore; TransUnion via Credit Karma UK — all free.
Why is my credit score different on each agency?
Each agency uses slightly different data and algorithms. Not all lenders report to all three agencies, causing legitimate variations.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Verify with gov.uk or qualified professionals before making decisions.
Last updated: April 2026 · Author: Chandraketu Tripathi
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