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Step 1: get your report
Business credit reports come from the reference agencies — Experian, Equifax and Creditsafe are the main ones. Buy a single report or take a short subscription. Pull from more than one, because each holds different data and scores on its own scale, so a problem may show on one but not another.
Step 2: check the payment record
Look for late payments reported by suppliers or finance providers. A wrongly recorded late payment drags the score unfairly and can be challenged. Confirm the accounts and limits listed are genuinely yours and up to date.
Step 3: check public records
Scan for CCJs, defaults and any insolvency markers. A judgment you have satisfied should show as satisfied; if it still reads as outstanding, that is an error worth fixing. See CCJs and business lending.
Step 4: dispute errors
Raise any inaccuracy with the agency, and with the original source of the data where relevant. Provide evidence — a settlement letter, a corrected filing. A successful dispute can lift your score materially before you ever apply for finance.
Clean it, then apply
Once your report is accurate, you can approach lenders knowing what they will see.
Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally, and takes no personal guarantee. See indicative terms on business loans, or apply online in minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I get my business credit report?
From the credit reference agencies — Experian, Equifax and Creditsafe are the main UK providers — as a single report or a subscription. Pull from more than one, since each holds different data.
What should I check on my business credit report?
The payment record for wrongly reported late payments, the public records for stale or satisfied CCJs still showing as outstanding, and the accounts and limits listed to confirm they are yours and accurate.
How do I dispute an error on my business credit file?
Raise it with the agency and the original data source, providing evidence such as a settlement letter or corrected filing. A successful dispute can lift your score before you apply for finance.
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