What is bad credit?

Bad credit affects millions of people in the UK. It's one of the main reasons why people are turned down for a loan or a credit card. But if you do have a bad credit score, it's important to know you're not alone.

Having bad credit doesn't always mean that your credit score is really low. For some people, it just means it isn't 'perfect'. But the good news is there are things you can do to improve your credit score. And it doesn't have to stand in the way of you getting the credit you need.

Why do I have bad credit?

There are two main reasons why you may have bad credit:

No credit history

When you apply for a credit card, a lender will want to know that you can pay them back. Having a healthy credit history shows you've used credit responsibly in the past. So this tells a lender that you're likely to be a reliable customer.

But what if you don't have any history of using credit or your credit history is quite limited? This can make it harder for lenders to know how reliable you are.

So, even if you've never had trouble managing your money before, not borrowing money or having a credit card can count against you. This can lead to you having a low credit score, which can have the same effect on your ability to get credit as having bad credit.

A limited credit history can be especially tricky for people who are new to the UK. Any credit history they may have built up in another country doesn't apply in the UK. Not only does it make it hard to apply for a credit card, but other things such as buying a car, signing up for a mobile phone contract or getting broadband.

Problems with credit

If you've struggled with credit in the past, you could find it hard to get accepted for credit in the future. Common problems include:

• Being late with a credit payment – or missing one completely
• Going over your credit limit
• Having a CCJ  opens in a new tab , being declared bankrupt or getting an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA)  opens in a new tab

These are the kind of things that make it less likely for you to get credit. But you're not stuck with bad credit.

There are steps you can take to move your credit score in the right direction and show a lender that you can use credit responsibly. And getting a credit card for bad credit can be one of those steps, as long as it's used responsibly.

What is a credit card for poor credit?

Credit cards for poor credit — like the Capital One Classic card – can help put your credit history on the right track when they're used sensibly which means making regular payments on time each month and staying under your credit limit.

When you apply for a Classic card you'll get a manageable credit limit and a representative APR of 34.9% representative variable.

Can I get a poor credit credit card?

If you're over 18 years old, live in the UK, and are looking for a credit card for poor credit scores then you could be eligible for our Classic card. Try QuickCheck today and see if you are eligible for our Classic card before you apply.