Credit Cards For Credit Rating

[Ric.ror]

I have a not impressive credit rating - I don’t know why as I have no debts - one late payment in 2017
Should I get a credit card just to bump my figures up?
I’ve no intention of using it

[bednobs]

just getting one wont help if you dont use ut. And you might find you cant if your rating is low.

[Ric.ror]

Thank you Bednobs
How would you suggest I improve my rating - it’s about 350 and national average is 415

[Zacs-Master]

Why do you want it raising?

[AuntPollyGrey]

If you get a credit card then you have to use it for it to have any effect on your Credit rating. Spend on it and pay it off completely each month -don't leave a balance. Also anything you can pay with by Direct Debit do so -this impact positively on your rating. If you don't know why you have a low rating then I suggest signing on here and finding out -it also gives you tips on how to increase your rating and offers on cards.
https://www.clearscore.com/

[Jackdaw33]

Get a card with a small credit limit, use it regularly and pay off the balance in full each month. That helps.

[AuntPollyGrey]

Your Credit rating is used for all sorts of things -not just credit. Insurance companies do soft searches, even sometimes potential employers -it's not just used to get credit.

[Ric.ror]

I’m just a bit worried that I apply for one the search will show on my tecords

[Ric.ror]

Records not tecords
How did that happen!!!

[davebro]

I think if you do a pre-application check it won't impact your rating. (many cards do this). Cards like Ocean specialise in poor credit rated customers - with a low spending limit £1500.

[davebro]

I have no debts & a single credit card that I pay in full each month.

A mate of mine is up to his ears in debt - numerous credit cards & buy now/pay later purchases. He does frequent balance transfers and pays the minimum required each month. He has a better credit rating than I do!