How to check your credit score for free using ClearScore
ClearScore is one of the most widely used services for checking your credit score for free. This article explains what it shows, how to sign up and what to know before using it.
How to check your credit score for free using ClearScore
Being able to view your credit score helps you understand how lenders may assess you when you apply for loans, mobile contracts, mortgages or even certain types of insurance. One popular way to check your credit score for free is through ClearScore, a digital service that provides regular score updates and a full credit report without cost.
This article explains how ClearScore works, what information it provides, how to sign up safely and what to consider when using it. This content is for general information only and does not provide personal financial advice.
What ClearScore actually does
ClearScore gives users free access to their credit report and credit score, based on data from Equifax — one of the main credit reference agencies. It updates your score weekly, and your report monthly, without charging a subscription fee.
ClearScore does not affect your score when you check it. It uses a soft search, which does not leave a mark on your credit file.
Source: ClearScore — How it works
https://www.clearscore.com/help/articles/what-is-clearscore
What information ClearScore shows
When you sign in to your ClearScore account, you can view:
- Your current credit score
- Your credit report (updated monthly)
- Open credit accounts (loans, credit cards, mobile contracts, car finance, etc.)
- Payment history and any late or missed payments
- Public records such as County Court Judgments (CCJs) or bankruptcies
- Previous searches made by lenders
- Your borrowing limit and utilisation percentage
Source: ClearScore — What is on your credit report
https://www.clearscore.com/help/articles/what-goes-on-my-credit-report
How to create a ClearScore account
To sign up:
- Visit https://www.clearscore.com
- Click Sign up and enter your email address
- Create a password and verify your email
- Provide personal details such as name, address history and date of birth
- ClearScore will verify your identity by asking multiple-choice questions based on your credit history
This process is standard and complies with data protection and ID verification requirements.
Does using ClearScore affect your credit score?
No. Checking your own credit score using ClearScore is considered a soft search, which does not impact your score. Lenders and other financial organisations cannot see soft searches.
Hard searches (such as loan applications) do leave a visible footprint.
Source: Equifax — Understanding credit checks
https://www.equifax.co.uk/resources/credit-checks-and-identity/credit-checks-explained/
How ClearScore makes money if it is free
ClearScore earns money by recommending products such as credit cards, loans, or insurance. If you click on those offers and apply, ClearScore may receive a commission.
You are not required to use any of these products to view your score. Viewing your credit file is free and does not create any obligation.
Source: ClearScore business model
https://www.clearscore.com/help/articles/how-does-clearscore-make-money
Are there any risks or concerns?
While ClearScore is widely used and FCA regulated for credit broking, it is important to know:
- It does not provide professional advice or assess whether a product is suitable for you.
- Offers shown are not endorsements.
- Your score is based on Equifax data only — lenders may also use Experian or TransUnion, which may show different scores.
- ClearScore data should not be considered a guarantee of loan approval.
Source: ClearScore regulatory information
https://www.clearscore.com/terms
Do all lenders see the same score?
No. Lenders do not see your ClearScore number exactly. Instead, they use data in your credit report to calculate their own internal score. That score depends on their risk policies, income checks, and other eligibility criteria.
This is why it is possible to have a “good” score but still be declined for credit.
Source: Financial Conduct Authority — Creditworthiness and affordability
https://www.fca.org.uk/publication/finalised-guidance/fg17-02.pdf
Key benefits of using ClearScore
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Free access | No charge for full report and score |
| Weekly updates | Score updates every week |
| Monthly reports | Full breakdown of credit file every month |
| Soft searches | Does not affect your score |
| Alerts | Notifies you if something changes on your report |
ClearScore is one of the most accessible ways for people to understand their credit situation without paying. It provides transparent access to your Equifax report, offers tools to monitor changes and helps people learn how credit information works.
However, it does not give advice, and score information alone does not guarantee approval for any financial product. Always conduct your own research and seek regulated advice where necessary.
This article is for general informational use only. It does not recommend taking any financial action, nor does it assess your individual situation. Always check official resources or contact a qualified adviser for your personal circumstances.
