Can debt consolidation affect your credit score? - Evolution Money (2024)

Can debt consolidation affect your credit score? - Evolution Money (1) Can debt consolidation affect your credit score? - Evolution Money (2)

For help and support with money worries Click here

We discuss the impact of debt consolidation on credit scores.

Secured Loans > Our Loans > Bad Credit Debt Consolidation Loans > Can debt consolidation affect your credit score?

Looking into debt consolidation? We consider the impact it could have on your credit score.

Consolidating your debt can help you manage multiple repayments. Instead of juggling a handful of different accounts, you’ll only need to focus on repaying your debt consolidation loan.

If you’re wondering how a debt consolidation loan could affect your credit score, our guide explains everything you need to know.

What will a debt consolidation loan look like on my credit report?

A debt consolidation loan will look like any other kind of loan on your credit report. Lenders looking at your credit report will see you’ve opened up a loan account with your chosen lender and they can track your repayments.

As you’ve used the loan to consolidate debt, lenders will also see that you’ve paid off your other loans or credit cards. If you close these accounts once they’re repaid, lenders will see these accounts marked as closed. Any missed repayments will remain on your credit report for up to six years, even after you’ve closed the account.

Having a debt consolidation loan on your credit report won’t look different to any other kind of loan. As long as you make your repayments on time, it won’t negatively affect your credit or make lenders worry about your eligibility.

Will taking out a debt consolidation loan hurt my credit score?

Taking out a debt consolidation loan won’t affect your credit score any more than other types of finance. It’s all about how you handle the repayments since taking out the loan.

Like any kind of finance, making an application will cause your credit score to temporarily drop. When you apply for any finance, lenders need to access your credit file to check your eligibility. This is called a hard inquiry – too many of these can hurt your credit score. As long as you don’t repeatedly apply for more credit after your debt consolidation loan, your credit score should bounce back relatively quickly.

If your credit score is poor and you’ve taken out a debt consolidation loan, it’s really important to keep up with the repayments. You could risk damaging your credit score further by missing a payment.

Can a debt consolidation loan improve my credit score?

Taking out a debt consolidation loan won’t directly improve your credit score. However, the way you manage your debt consolidation loan can help boost your score and improve your eligibility for finance in the future.

Many people choose to take out a debt consolidation loan if they’re struggling to manage their current repayments. If that’s the case, your credit score might be less than perfect as a result.

Whether it’s a lower interest rate or a longer term, debt consolidation loans often help you repay your debts with lower monthly repayments. More affordable repayments could help you stay on top of your finances – which could then help you improve your credit score.

A debt consolidation loan may also slowly improve your credit score if you consistently make your repayments on time and in full. Lenders like to see how you manage an account over a long period of time – so a debt consolidation loan could help you prove you can handle a long-term commitment.

It all depends on your circ*mstances

The way debt consolidation will affect your credit score all depends on your individual circ*mstances.

If you already have a bad credit score, a debt consolidation loan could help you turn your finances around. As it could lower your monthly repayments, you could avoid missing any more repayments and start to improve your score.

On the other hand, if you miss repayments towards your debt consolidation loan, it could make a bad credit score worse. Only ever consider taking out a debt consolidation loan if you’re completely sure you can manage the repayments.

Debt consolidation loans for bad credit

At Evolution Money, we’re committed to finding loans that actually help you. If you’re looking to repair a bad credit score, a debt consolidation loan could help turn your situation around.

We’ll work around your circ*mstances to find a loan that suits you, no matter what your credit score. Simply fill out our fast and simple application form and our friendly advisors will get back to you right away.

Warning: Late payment can cause you serious money problems. For help, go to moneyhelper.org.uk

Latest News

Why Do Brits Avoid Talking About Money?

Talking about money can be a difficult conversation, but how does it stack up against other awkward topics that we… Read More

Why ‘kerb appeal’ really matters

We’ve investigated what exterior features can make your home more attractive to prospective buyers, and even increase its value. We… Read More

Credit Scores Around The UK

We explore the regions that have the highest and lowest average credit scores

The top myths about borrowing money

The top myths about borrowing money (and how to stop your money concerns) The act of borrowing capital for it… Read More

THINK CAREFULLY BEFORE SECURING DEBTS AGAINST YOUR HOME. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER LOAN SECURED AGAINST IT.

Annual Interest Rates ranging from 11.7% to 46.5% variable.

28.96% APRC Representative Variable.

Maximum APRC: 50.00%

Typical Example: Loan Amount: £20950.00, Loan Term: 85 Months, Interest Rate: 23.00% PA Variable.

Monthly Repayments: £537.44. Total Amount Repayable: £45,682.15.

This example includes a Product Fee of £2,095.00 (10% of the loan amount) and a Lending Fee of £714.00. Read more.

IF YOU ARE THINKING OF CONSOLIDATING EXISTING BORROWING, YOU SHOULD BE AWARE THAT YOU MAY BE EXTENDING THE TERMS OF THE DEBT AND INCREASING THE TOTAL AMOUNT YOU REPAY.

*Loan must be paid back by 70th birthday

FRAUD WARNING - We have been made aware that there have been websites set up using our details to attempt to scam people for money. Evolution Money Limited will never ask for application fees, insurance fees or a fee for not using a guarantor before issuing a loan. If you have come across a website using Evolution Money details that you believe to be suspicious, please contact us. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, please contact Action Fraud

How our customers rate us

We’re proud of the high standard of our customer service and believe that each of our customers should be treated as an individual.
Evolution Money96 out of 100, based on 178 reviews over the past year.178 user reviews. Read our reviews

Members of the The Finance & Leasing Association

Can debt consolidation affect your credit score? - Evolution Money (3)We are a member of the FLA (Finance and Leasing Association) and subscribe to its lending code.

Socialise

Feeling social? Check out our social pages!

Tweet us on Twitter
Like us on Facebook
Add us on Google+

Our Address

Evolution Money,9 Portland Street, Manchester,M1 3BERegistered Company Number: 06987852

Contact by Phone

General Enquiries:
0161 814 9158

Complaints:
0161 814 9165

Contact by Email

General Enquiries:
info@evolutionmoney.co.uk

Business Referrals:
introducers@evolutionmoney.co.uk

Complaints:
complaints@evolutionmoney.co.uk

Can debt consolidation affect your credit score? - Evolution Money (4)

Evolution Money Limited is a licensed credit broker and service provider to Evolution Lending Limited. If your application doesn’t meet the underwriting requirements of Evolution Lending Limited we may pass your information to other lenders and brokers. Evolution Money Limited is a company registered in England & Wales, registration number 06987852 and registered at 9 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 3BE. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm reference number 708324.


© 2023 Evolution Money | Cookies | Complaints Policy | Breaking Down Our Loans | Terms & Conditions | Fair Processing Notice | Sitemap

Don't leave just yet!

Evolution Money are a multi Award Winning UK finance company with thousands of happy customers!

Can debt consolidation affect your credit score? - Evolution Money (5)

Our friendly loan advisors can let you know if you're eligible for a loan without affecting your credit score. Why not give us a call today!

Freephone 0800 144 8188

Back to Evolution

As a seasoned financial expert with a background in loans and debt management, I've navigated the intricate landscape of various loan types, repayment structures, and borrower profiles. My extensive knowledge stems from hands-on experience and a commitment to staying abreast of industry developments.

Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:

  1. Types of Loans:

    • The article mentions various types of loans, including homeowner loans, secured loans, no guarantor bad credit loans, self-employed loans, joint loans, instalment loans, long-term loans, etc. Each type caters to specific borrower needs and financial situations.
  2. Loan Purposes:

    • The loans discussed serve different purposes, such as debt consolidation loans, bad credit debt consolidation loans, home improvement loans, bike loans, wedding day loans, affordable car loans, holiday loans, and business investment loans.
  3. Loans by Value:

    • Loans are categorized by value, ranging from a £5,000 loan to £100,000 loans, addressing diverse financial requirements.
  4. Loans by Term:

    • The article touches upon the duration of loans, presenting options like 5-year loans and 10-year loans, highlighting flexibility in repayment periods.
  5. Loan Application Process:

    • It outlines the steps involved in applying for an online loan, emphasizing eligibility criteria and the importance of an affordability assessment.
  6. Why Choose Evolution Money:

    • The article communicates the unique selling points of Evolution Money, emphasizing their commitment to customers, a distinct loan process, and a breakdown of fees and charges.
  7. Impact on Credit Scores:

    • The central focus of the article is on the impact of debt consolidation on credit scores. It explains how a debt consolidation loan appears on a credit report, the short-term effects on credit scores due to the application process, and the potential long-term benefits if repayments are managed well.
  8. Debt Consolidation for Bad Credit:

    • Evolution Money addresses the possibility of using debt consolidation loans to improve a bad credit score, stressing the importance of responsible repayment to avoid further damage.
  9. Loan Rates and APRCs:

    • The article touches on annual interest rates, APRC (Annual Percentage Rate of Charge), and provides a representative example to give readers a clear understanding of the cost of borrowing.
  10. Customer Reviews and Case Studies:

    • Evolution Money shares customer testimonials and secured loan case studies to build trust and showcase their track record.
  11. Financial Education:

    • The article incorporates elements of financial education, explaining concepts like credit scores, APR, and the potential impact of missed payments.
  12. Regulatory Compliance:

    • Evolution Money emphasizes compliance with regulations, addressing issues like fraud warnings and providing contact information for customer support.

In conclusion, this article not only serves as a guide to individuals seeking loans but also demonstrates the expertise of Evolution Money in navigating the complex world of lending, with a focus on responsible borrowing and debt management.

Can debt consolidation affect your credit score? - Evolution Money (2024)

FAQs

Can debt consolidation affect your credit score? - Evolution Money? ›

Debt consolidation — combining multiple debt balances into one new loan — is likely to raise your credit scores over the long term if you use it to pay off debt. But it's possible you'll see a decline in your credit scores at first. That can be OK, as long as you make payments on time and don't rack up more debt.

Will a debt consolidation ruin my credit? ›

It makes getting out of debt easier — and sometimes cheaper. That said, debt consolidation isn't a magic bullet. It can temporarily ding your credit scores or bring even more damage if you're not disciplined with your debt repayment.

What is a disadvantage of debt consolidation? ›

You may pay a higher rate

Your debt consolidation loan could come with more interest than you currently pay on your debts. This can happen for several reasons, including your current credit score. If it's on the lower end, lenders see you as a higher risk for default.

How can I consolidate my debt without affecting my credit score? ›

Best Options to Consolidate Debt Without Hurting Your Credit
  1. Personal Loans. A personal loan is one of the most common methods of merging multiple debts into one. ...
  2. Home Equity Loans. With a home equity loan, you can borrow against your home's equity and use the money to pay off existing debts. ...
  3. Balance Transfers.
Sep 13, 2023

How long does it take your credit to recover from debt consolidation? ›

Debt consolidation itself doesn't show up on your credit reports, but any new loans or credit card accounts you open to consolidate your debt will. Most accounts will show up for 10 years after you close them, and any missed payments will show up for seven years from the date you missed the payment.

Can I buy a house after debt consolidation? ›

Debt settlement could saddle you with more financial problems, like lower credit scores and a bill from the IRS, both of which could make it harder to qualify for a mortgage. Ultimately you can still get a mortgage after debt settlement, but you have to approach the process with some strategy and caution.

How much debt is too much to consolidate? ›

Success with a consolidation strategy requires the following: Your monthly debt payments (including your rent or mortgage) don't exceed 50% of your monthly gross income.

Is it good idea to consolidate debt? ›

Consolidating debt can be a good idea if you have good credit and can qualify for better terms than what you have now and you can afford the new monthly payments. However, you might think twice about it if your credit needs some work, your debt burden is small or your debt situation is dire.

What are 4 things debt consolidation can do? ›

Loan debt consolidation is when you take out a new loan to pay off multiple debts. Four types of debt are commonly consolidated: credit card debt, student loan debt, medical debt and high-interest personal loan debt. You may reduce the overall cost of repayment by securing better terms and interest.

Why not to consolidate loans? ›

You might lose borrower benefits such as interest rate discounts, principal rebates, or some loan cancellation benefits associated with your current loans. Normally, consolidating your current loans could cause you to lose credit for payments made toward IDR plan forgiveness or PSLF.

Does debt consolidation affect buying a car? ›

No, debt consolidation doesn't affect buying a car.

Still, in scenarios where the company wants to purchase the car by securing a loan, it may be affected by the debt arrears, which are part of the considerations creditors consider before giving out loans.

How to rebuild your credit after debt consolidation? ›

To repair your credit after a settlement, it is important to pay your bills on time, not exceed your credit limits, and make sure your credit utilization ratio stays relatively low. If you do all that, then your credit score will improve over time.

How do I build my credit after consolidation? ›

8 Steps to Rebuild Your Credit
  1. Review Your Credit Reports. ...
  2. Pay Bills on Time. ...
  3. Lower Your Credit Utilization Ratio. ...
  4. Get Help With Debt. ...
  5. Become an Authorized User. ...
  6. Get a Cosigner. ...
  7. Only Apply for Credit You Need. ...
  8. Consider a Secured Card.
Nov 2, 2023

Can you still get a loan after debt consolidation? ›

It is possible to get a home loan and very possible to get a car loan, student loan or new credit card while you're on a debt management program. Nonetheless, a good nonprofit credit counseling agency would advise you to slow down and weigh the risks before acting.

Is it a good idea to use a debt relief program? ›

Debt relief plans can help make your payments more manageable, but they're not right for everyone. It's important for you to understand how each plan or program works and how debt relief can affect your finances.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Ray Christiansen

Last Updated:

Views: 6211

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (49 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Ray Christiansen

Birthday: 1998-05-04

Address: Apt. 814 34339 Sauer Islands, Hirtheville, GA 02446-8771

Phone: +337636892828

Job: Lead Hospitality Designer

Hobby: Urban exploration, Tai chi, Lockpicking, Fashion, Gunsmithing, Pottery, Geocaching

Introduction: My name is Ray Christiansen, I am a fair, good, cute, gentle, vast, glamorous, excited person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.