Prove you exist

Lesson 4 of 12 in our free Credit Scores & Files guide: a 5-minute money game with the key points below.

This lesson is in the full version.

Free with a code from your uni, college, council, landlord or employer (worth £600/year). Lesson 1 of Credit Scores & Files is free for everyone.

Questions you'll answer

Mo just moved into a new house share. What helps his credit file most?

Being on the electoral register (if eligible) → Helps. Lenders use it to confirm your name and address.
Updating your address with all your accounts → Helps. Consistent addresses = fewer verification problems.
Your social media follower count → Doesn't help. Main character energy, zero credit impact.
Having a bank account at your current address → Helps. Active accounts at your address back up who you are.
Myth: “Everyone living in the UK can register to vote.” — Eligibility depends on nationality and where you live. If you can't register, lenders can verify you in other ways — like proof of address documents.
Fact: “You can register to vote at both a term-time and a home address.” — Students can be registered at both — but you can only vote once in the same election.
Fact: “Being on the open register means your details can be bought by companies.” — The open (edited) register can be sold. You can opt out of it and still be on the full register lenders check.