Why are Credit Scores Different on Different Sites?

At a Glance

Credit scores differ across websites because platforms can use different credit reference agencies, scoring models and data sources. Lenders also assess applicants using their own internal criteria and decision making models, which are not standardised. Variations between sites are common based on differences in how each agency collects, updates and calculates credit score information.

Different Credit Scores Explained

If you’ve ever checked your credit score on two different websites and noticed they don’t match, you’re not alone. 

This can be confusing and could lead to worry that something is wrong with your credit report. 

In reality, it’s completely normal for your score to vary from platform to platform. Each site uses different scoring models, update their data at different times and receive information from different credit reference agencies.

Even small differences in how your financial behaviour is calculated can lead to slightly different numbers. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my credit score different on different sites?” let’s explore why these variations happen so you can avoid unnecessary stress.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common reasons credit scores differ across websites and explain what really matters when you’re checking your score. With the right knowledge, you can focus on what improves your credit, rather than the numbers themselves.

How Credit Reference Agencies Collect and Score Your Data

Credit reference agencies collect information about your financial behaviour, including your loans, credit cards, payment history and overall borrowing activity. Part of being a responsible lender, like Salad, is sharing this data with them regularly, helping build accurate credit reports.

Each agency then uses its own scoring model to turn this information into a credit score. Because these models are all slightly different, the same data can result in different scores.

Agencies can also update information at different times, which can also add to the variation.

Why Lenders Use Different Scoring Models and Criteria

Different lenders use different scoring models because they each have their own way of judging risk. Where one may prioritise your payment history, another may focus more on your current debt or how often you apply for credit.

They also use different criteria based on the type of products they offer, such as mortgages, credit cards or personal loans. As a result, the same person can receive slightly different scores depending on which model is being used.

These varying credit scores reflect each lender’s unique approach to deciding how safe it is to lend to you.

At Salad, we use Open Banking in our initial assessment to get a more accurate representation of loan affordability, rather than judging you based on your credit score.

The Role of Soft Searches, Hard Searches and Report Timing

Soft searches, hard searches and the timing of updates all affect how your credit score appears on different sites.

A soft credit check happens when you check your own score or use an eligibility checker, which doesn’t affect your credit score. 

A hard check occurs after you successfully apply for credit and it can temporarily lower your score. If one site shows a recent hard search and another hasn’t updated yet, your scores across sites may differ.

Your lenders also periodically report new information, like payments or balances, on their own schedules. Depending on when a site refreshes your data, your score may look slightly higher or lower than elsewhere.

Common Reasons Your Score Varies Across Platforms

If you’re wondering, “Why is my credit score different on different sites?” there are many simple reasons for it. Different websites use different credit reference agencies, so they’re pulling information from separate databases.

Some platforms also update their data more regularly than others, typically every 1-2 months, meaning your score might reflect more recent activity on one site over another. They may also use different scoring models, which calculate your score in their own way. 

Even small changes, like a new payment being reported or a recent hard credit search, can show up at different times. Overall, these differences just show how each platform collects, updates, and scores your financial information.

Which Score Matters Most When Applying for Credit?

When you’re applying for credit, the score that matters most is the one your lender uses, not the one you see on different apps or websites. However, this doesn’t apply to Salad’s loans, as credit score checks aren’t a part of our initial assessment.

Most other lenders have their own scoring models and may check your report with specific credit reference agencies. This means your application is assessed using their criteria, not the score shown on consumer platforms.

The scores you see online are helpful for tracking your overall financial health, but they’re only guides. Instead of focusing on one exact number, it might help to aim for good habits like paying on time, keeping your credit balances low, and avoiding too many applications.

For Fairer Loans, No Matter Your Credit Score, Think Salad

If you’ve been asking the question, “Why is my credit score different on different sites?”, we hope you now know the answer. 

At Salad, we offer fair loans to employed UK residents who are looking to get their finances back on track. 

Applying for one of our new loans doesn’t impact your credit score. We use Open Banking in our initial assessment. If successful, we report your loan to the CRAs (Credit Reference Agencies). Your credit score won’t hold you back from being eligible.