Credit basics · Prototype hub
Credit score & rebuild
explained in simple steps.
This hub explains how credit scores work, how they are calculated and how to safely rebuild credit. All content is educational only and may differ by country. Always check local lenders and credit bureaus for correct rules where you live.
When this type of card or hub makes sense
- You want to build or rebuild payment history safely.
- You are unsure how credit scores work in your region.
- You want a simple explanation of credit factors.
- You need a secured card or low-risk card type to restart credit.
This page does not give financial advice and does not recommend issuers.
Credit profiles (prototype)
These are generic examples used to illustrate how a rebuild tool might work later.
How credit scores are calculated
Credit score models differ between countries, but most include the same core ideas: payment history, balances, length of credit, new inquiries and account mix.
Payment history
The most important factor. Paying on time builds trust with lenders.
Late payments can stay on your record for years.
Credit utilization
How much of your limit you use. Lower is usually better.
Often recommended: below 30%, ideally below 10%.
Length of credit history
Older accounts show long-term, stable behaviour.
Closing old accounts may affect this factor.
New credit checks
Many applications in a short time can lower your score.
Soft checks usually don’t affect it.
Account mix
A mix of loans, credit cards and instalments can help a score.
Only relevant once you have basic history.
Consistency over time
The score improves slowly through positive behaviour.
There are no shortcuts to repairing credit.
Rebuild card examples (prototype)
These examples show how secured or low-limit cards might appear in a rebuild comparison. Replace all content with verified issuer documentation later.
Example Secured Card A
Deposit-backed limit
€200–€500 limit · €0 annual fee
Example Rebuild Card B
Low limit, basic protections
€300–€600 limit · minimal perks
Example Ultra-Basic Card C
For very low-risk use
€0 fee · slow rebuild
Policies.Creditcard
Editorial rules for describing risk, credit factors and rebuild tools.
External microsite
CompareCC.Creditcard
Comparison layouts for future rebuild tables.
Structural reference
Rewards.Creditcard
How earning models work (not credit score-specific, but foundational).
External microsite