Whether you’re applying for your first mortgage, moving home or applying for additional borrowing, your credit file is a crucial document lenders will check to ensure you fit with their lending criteria for new borrowing.
With our CheckMyFile partnership, you can view files from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion in one simple dashboard – on a free 30-day trial.
Why your credit file matters
Your credit file is much more than a score. It’s the full history of how you’ve managed credit – telling lenders:
- Length & variety of credit
Mortgage lenders like to see you’ve handled different types of credit – loans, credit cards, store cards – for at least a couple of years, on time. - Recent applications
Every time you apply for a new credit card, loan or overdraft, a “hard search” may be recorded. Multiple searches in a short period can suggest financial stress. - Payment history & timeliness
Late payments, even by a few days, stay on your file for six years. That means a one-off forgotten direct debit today could affect your mortgage offer tomorrow. - Early warning system
Mistakes happen: sometimes payments get marked late by accident, or identity fraud can slip in unnoticed. Spotting these issues early means you can get them corrected before applying for a mortgage. - Snapshot of total borrowing
See every debt in one snapshot – from credit cards and personal loans to car finance, store cards and buy-now-pay-later plans – so you capture all commitments as part of initial research for mortgage finance.
Understanding these details helps you see exactly what a lender sees – so we can tackle any issues before we submit your mortgage application.
Spotting adverse credit events
Avoid unwelcome surprises by regularly checking your credit reports – letting you:
- Correct errors swiftly
Data mistakes happen: closed accounts still marked active, zero balances shown as missed payments. Disputes are typically resolved within 28 days once you flag them. - Detect CCJs, defaults and arrears
County Court Judgments or defaults from years ago may still linger. Spotting them early means you can negotiate a “satisfied status” or set up payment plans, lessening their impact. - Monitor for identity fraud
If someone opens credit in your name, CheckMyFile alerts you in real time. The sooner you know, the sooner you can block fraudulent accounts and protect your score.
Tip: Keep your personal details up to date (address, phone number) so you never miss an alert or important notice from credit reference agencies.
Why we think CheckMyFile is a good option for SWM clients
Rather than juggling three separate websites, CheckMyFile delivers a “three-birds-one-stone” approach:
- Single three-in-one dashboard
One login gives instant access to Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. - Real-time change alerts
Get notified of new searches, accounts or public-record entries the moment they appear. - Deep data insights
View soft searches (e.g. quotation checks), public records, and alternative data not shown elsewhere. - Flexible management
Upgrade to include enhanced fraud protection, or cancel online any time.
How to access your CheckMyFile offer
- Click the button below to start your free 30-day trial.
- Complete a quick registration with your name, address and date of birth.
- Verify your identity via a soft search (no impact on your score).
- Explore your full report, including Open Accounts, CCJs & Defaults and Search History.
- Cancel online at any time before your first payment if you change your mind.
Terms & conditions – understand what this offer means for you
- Free 30-day trial, then £14.99 per month.
- Cancel online any time before your first payment.
- Soft search only on signup – no footprint on your credit file.
- UK residents only.
- CheckMyFile is FCA-authorised and ICO-registered.
- Sterling Wealth & Mortgages may receive up to £12 per new user that signs up to CheckMyFile.
Real SWM client stories
Modern mortgage advice now starts with a full credit file – so we see every detail before you apply.
With greater accuracy, transparency, and speed… you benefit.
We’ve had previous cases where clients’ identities were used to open accounts they never authorised. We’ve stopped or prevented fraud by asking clients to obtain copies of their credit files for us to review.
On other occasions, small defaults or unknown missed payments have slashed borrowing power – however we’ve manage to overturn initial underwriter hesitation with the benefit of access to the applicant’s full credit report.
By insisting on credit files up front, we prevent surprises and secure smoother, cheaper, and less stressful outcomes.
Get your report from CheckMyFile
FAQ
Q: Is my data secure with CheckMyFile?
A: Yes. CheckMyFile uses industry-leading encryption, is FCA-authorised, and registered with the ICO.
Q: Will checking my file on CheckMyFile impact my credit score?
A: No. All checks via CheckMyFile are soft searches and won’t appear on your credit file.
Q: Can I share my report with my financial adviser?
A: Absolutely. You can download a PDF, so we can review your file together in one session.
Q: Do I have to pay to see my credit file?
A: No – your first 30 days are completely free as a new customer. You can cancel before your first payment without charge.
Q: Can I sign up directly with Equifax, Experian or TransUnion?
A: Yes, but you’d need three separate accounts. CheckMyFile bundles all three in a single, easy-to-use dashboard.
Ready to access your credit reports with CheckMyFile?
By proactively reviewing your complete credit history and all borrowing commitments, you and your adviser can tackle issues early and approach mortgage applications with confidence. Click below and take control of your credit today.