Credit scores: when a small debt becomes a big problem
Oct 31, 2023
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Sara Williams, a debt blogger, and James Jones, Head of Consumer Affairs at Experian, discuss credit scores, small debts impacting mortgages, and credit rating agency flaws. They explore the consequences of small historic debts, defaults on credit scores and mortgages, and tips for improving credit scores and loan opportunities.
A small debt, such as an unpaid iPad data plan, can have a significant impact on one's credit score, potentially affecting mortgage rates.
Debt collection agencies and phone companies should improve communication and responsiveness in resolving debt collection issues.
Deep dives
The Impact of a Small Debt on Credit Score
Kalyan's story illustrates how a small debt can have significant consequences on one's credit score. After mistakenly continuing to pay for an iPad data plan he no longer used, Kalyan canceled the direct debit and paid off the outstanding balance. However, this led to a default being recorded on his credit file, causing his credit score to drop by 260 points. With his fixed rate mortgage expiring soon, Kalyan is concerned that his reduced credit score may affect his ability to secure favorable rates. He questions why such a small blip has such a drastic impact on his credit profile and calls for more fairness in credit scoring.
Challenges in Dealing with Debt Collection
Kalyan faced difficulties in resolving the debt collection issue. After receiving a letter from a debt collection agency demanding an additional £54, Kalyan promptly paid it, expecting the matter to be resolved. However, he later discovered that a default had been recorded on his credit file because he canceled the direct debit. Despite his attempts to contact the phone company and the debt collection agency, he was met with unhelpful responses, escalating his frustration. Kalyan emphasizes the need for better communication and efforts from these entities when dealing with debt collection.
Credit Scores and Mortgage Renewal Worries
Kalyan's lowered credit score due to the default raises concerns about his upcoming mortgage renewal. Although he has been a high earner with a perfect credit score in the past, the drop in his score may result in less favorable rates. Kalyan worries about the potential financial impact of increased interest rates on his mortgage. He questions the correlation between his credit score and his ability to meet mortgage payments, particularly since the default was for a relatively small amount.
Improving Credit Scores and Challenge to Credit Scoring System
Kalyan seeks advice on improving his credit score and questions the accuracy and fairness of the credit scoring system. Experts recommend paying off debts promptly, keeping balances low, and using credit responsibly to boost one's credit score. They acknowledge the need for improvements in the credit scoring system, such as considering affordability and allowing credit scores to improve after resolving past issues. They also challenge the emphasis on credit usage and call for a more balanced approach that rewards responsible financial management.
Back in 2010, Money Clinic listener Kalyanbought an iPad with a monthly 3G subscription. Thirteen years later, that long-forgotten purchase might stop him from getting a decent rate on his mortgage. It’s a story that shines a light on how credit rating agencies score you and how things can easily go wrong. Host Claer Barrett hears from Sara Williams, who runs Debt Camel, a blog and popular Instagram account, as well as James Jones, head of consumer affairs at Experian, one of the UK's main credit reference agencies.
If you would like to talk to Claer about a future episode, please email the Money Clinic team at money@ft.com with a short description of your problem, and how you would like us to help.
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Presented by Claer Barrett. Produced by Philippa Goodrich. Our executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Sound design is by Breen Turner, with original music from Metaphor Music.