Credit cards

[Nevin]

What are the possible reasons for refusing someone a credit card?

[BenDToy]

Credit card companies use data from credit reference files compiled by Equifax and Experian. These files contain information about your credit history, such as what credit you have, including bank accounts and mortgages, and your payment record. It also includes records of any searches of your file. The CC companies use this data to assess your credit worthiness. Each of them uses different criteria to make a decision. In general a poor payment record and court judgements would count strongly against you. There are many other factors which could count against you, like no credit history, not a home owner, no bank account, too many searches. If you have been refused, try a less "selective" card issuer. I don't know who they are I am afraid. Sorry. Hope this is useful though.

[nortypony]

There is also a third credit reference agency called Callcredit Plc.

They all have their own websites - and for a fee of �2 will provide you with a copy of the information they hold.

[Nevin]

Thanks, that is actually very useful. I've never had a credit card and I'm 31, so I guess I fall into the 'no credit history' category.