www.creditexpert.co.uk

Credit Expert is a perfect site for anyone looking at making a large purchase such as buying a car, for anyone looking to move, or simply to check on your credit score. Myself and my husband both first signed up to Credit Expert about 18 months ago after we had paid several loans off after being in debt. We wanted to check out what our scores were, but in the process found out that a lot of our report was actually inaccurate. This wasn't just the case for one of us, but for both of us. We were shocked when one loan we had paid off early was showing as being in default. We soon got on the case and with the help of Credit Expert were able to get this amended once they had contacted said company on our behalf.

Credit Expert gives you the opportunity to check everything that a creditor would use to consider you for an application of any loan. You can check who has searched your credit report within the last year (and also how many times - we didn't realise that often companies search your report more than once - don't ask why, we don't know either!). You can check all the addresses you are linked to, your electoral roll information, individuals you may be linked to (my husband found out he was linked to an ex girlfriend of over 8 years ago, as they still had a joint savings account open together!).

Credit Expert also gives you the chance of checking your all important credit score, but to be honest unless your applying for something, I wouldn't do this on a regular basis, as it costs £5.99 a time. Unless something has drastically changed on your report, such as a loan being settled early, it's unlikely to change drastically.

Credit Expert have recently launched a new service which is free to use for all members called 'lower my bills'. This service allows you to search for credit cards, mortgages and loans that suit your credit score. This is great as it is free to use (apart from your monthly membership to Credit Expert), doesn't leave a footprint on your credit report, and it will show you options which you are likely to be accepted for given your current credit situation. It also saves the hassle of making multiple applications.

Another aspect of credit expert is the option to check how at risk you are from identity theft and fraud. The 'my alerts' section will email you whenever there has been a significant change to your report (searches, applications, settlements as well as new agreements being set up), with identity theft in mind, this is an excellent part of the service.

Credit Expert currently have a 30 day free trial to all new members, and thereafter the service will cost you £6.99 per month.

I would recommend everyone checking their report, even if you choose not to continue with the membership, take a look to make sure everything is correct.