Credit scores: when a small debt becomes a big problem

Back in 2010, Money Clinic listener Kalyan bought 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. Want more? Free links:UK watchdog calls for reform of credit rating marketHow to improve your credit score 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. Follow Claer on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @ClaerbPresented 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.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Om Podcasten

The FT’s money-making expert Claer Barrett responds to real-life money questions from a range of millennial guests gearing up to battle the cost of living crisis. Every episode is packed with nuggets, tips and takeaways shared by top FT writers and financial experts. There are no short cuts to wealth, but Money Clinic promises to tell you things you didn’t know about your finances and investing in ways that anyone can understand. Want to talk to Claer on the show? Email money@ft.com or drop her a line on Instagram @Claerb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.