People
What is a credit union?
A credit union is a not-for-profit co-operative, providing loans and savings accounts to its members. Their three main aims are: To provide loans at low interest rates To encourage regular saving To provide financial support and assistance to members and the community In 2023, the British credit union sector surpassed 1.5 million members (including junior…
Read MoreGetting a mortgage with a poorer credit history
We’ve been locked away in our homes for more than a year. No wonder many of us are thinking that it would be much more comfortable in our own place. And it is a feeling shared by many. According to the British Social Attitudes survey 86% of people want to own their own home. Last…
Read MoreSave money by using cash instead of a card
Save money by using cash instead of a card. If you walk into a supermarket with only a £10 note, you’ve limited your spending to a tenner. Sounds obvious, but it’s an effective way to control your spending. Furthermore, it’s really hard to stick to a maximum spend if you’re using a debit card. And…
Read MoreSoft vs hard credit check: what’s the difference?
Each time you apply for a loan a lender will search your credit report… and your credit score falls. A ‘footprint’ is left behind when creditors undertake this ‘credit check’. And, other lenders can see these footprints. One or two searches per year are unlikely to make much difference to your credit score. But several…
Read MoreAre You In Control Of Your Credit?
Are you are getting turned down for loans? Getting charged too much for borrowing? Your credit score might be too low. However, the full picture is more complicated. You’re not in control of your financial identity Your financial identity (also known as your credit profile) determines whether you get a loan. It sets the interest…
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