Using Data Protection to find out why you failed.

If a lender refuses you credit, it must say why. Under the Data Protection Act, if you are refused credit, and scoring was used to help the lender decide, you can ask for a review of your application.

This gives you the chance to review your rating and see where it may need improving. Alternatively, it gives you the chance to point out mistakes that may be on your record.

All is not lost if your rating is poor - although it may take time to repair. Bankruptcy details remain on people's ratings for up to six years, but for most minor problems it should take a year of good credit habits to return a rating to health.