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Understanding credit decisions
Tips to help you work out next steps
Why can’t I apply?
Different banks have different reasons and criteria for why they sometimes can’t lend money. We haven’t been able to accept your application at this point in time, but another lender might. If you’re thinking about applying again in the future, here are some practical things that could help
Money in and out
We need to see that there’s going to be enough money coming in to cover the extra cost of credit repayments. It might be that you’ve more money going out of your account than coming in. If you have too many borrowing products with us or other banks, it can be difficult to pay back any new lending.
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Credit scores are important
Credit scores are provided by three different credit reference agencies in the UK and they all assess your financial history. Your score impacts your ability to borrow money. A low score could mean that it isn’t the right time for us to lend to you. It can also mean your credit history is too limited. Making regular payments, for things like car finance or mobile phone contracts, could help to prove your experience of being a responsible borrower.
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Repayment challenges
Previous repayment problems could mean that you’ll struggle to pay back new credit. We look to see if you’ve missed regular payments in the past, or if you’ve been made bankrupt, or had county court judgements against you.
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Illustrated image of a meter gauge and credit card Credit scoring guide
Use our tips and tools to check your TransUnion credit score and see how you could improve it.
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Illustrated image of credit cards in a box Financial health check
Had yours yet? It could be good timing to get your free NatWest Check-in with a senior personal banker. It’s all about your needs, goals and what you could do to achieve them.
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Illustrated image of a cubed box and speech bubble More support
Are you struggling and worried about your money? Have a look at our guide for ways to get in touch. We’re here to help.
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Credit score provided by TransUnion. It’s available to view once you’ve opted in through the NatWest Mobile App.
Appealing against the decision
You can appeal against a decision. But this might not change the outcome of your application. You need to make your appeal within 30 days of our credit decision. Include any relevant information that you feel supports your request.
Get details on how to appeal from your local branch.
Applying somewhere else
It’s worth remembering that each lender has their own lending criteria. Being turned down by one doesn’t mean you won’t be accepted somewhere else.
Before you start, here are some watchouts.
- If possible, use an eligibility checker tool before you apply.
- Space out your applications. Lots of credit searches in a short space of time could affect your credit score.
- Previous credit searches about you may be kept on file. Credit reference agencies could keep the search we did about you. If other lenders use the same agency to check your credit history, they’ll be told about our search.