TransUnion has introduced a new consumer credit score in the UK, although the credit reference agency said the change would not affect lenders’ decisions or the information contained in credit reports.
The scoring system uses a range of 0 – 999, replacing the existing 0 – 710 scale, and incorporates data showing how consumers use credit over time alongside a snapshot of their current position.
It draws on information including changes in account balances and the use of credit cards. TransUnion said the model was also intended to provide a better assessment of people with little or no credit history, including those who are new to credit.
The revised bands classify scores from 0 – 487 as “Very Low”, 488 – 562 as “Low”, 563 – 652 as “Fair”, 653 – 785 as “Good” and 786 – 999 as “Excellent”.
Under the previous system, scores from 0 – 550 were classed as “Very Poor”, while the “Excellent” category covered scores from 628 – 710.
The score is accompanied by more than 300 educational messages, personalised insights and tips explaining the factors that can influence a consumer’s credit profile.
TransUnion stressed that the change would not alter the underlying credit information supplied to organisations. Lenders will continue to use credit reports alongside their own criteria when assessing applications.
Madhu Kejriwal, chief executive officer for TransUnion in the UK, said: “At TransUnion, Information for Good is at the heart of what we do, this is a significant step forward in how we support consumers to understand and engage with their credit health.
“Our next-generation score is clearer, more transparent, informative, and better aligned with how lenders view consumers today.
“We believe that understanding your credit health is the foundation for confidently making more informed financial decisions.
“With practical guidance, personalised insights and tailored support, consumers now have the tools to take meaningful action and move toward their financial goals.”
James Robinson, managing director of consumer interactive for TransUnion in the UK, commented: “There is still significant confusion among consumers about what credit scores mean, with many believing the score they see is the same one used by lenders.
“Our new score is designed to minimise this confusion by using a broader range of behaviours over time, rather than a single snapshot.
“That fuller picture can help people better understand the positive financial behaviours influencing their score, engage more confidently with their credit health, and access the guidance they need to improve it.
“By combining practical educational tips, helpful guidance and personalised insights, we want to support consumers in taking greater control of their financial health and making more informed decisions with confidence.”
The score will be introduced by credit-monitoring partners in phases from late September 2026 to June 2027. Consumers may see two different TransUnion scores during the transition, depending on when their provider adopts the model.
