Most Kiwis don't know their credit score and could be missing out on better financial deals.
A credit score is a measure from 0 to 1000 used by banks and other credit providers to decide whether they will give you a mortgage, personal loan or credit card.
The survey of 1000 people was conducted by a new website called www.creditsimple.co.nz.
It found 92 percent of New Zealanders don't know their credit score, 72 percent don't know what a credit score is and only 13 percent have ever ordered their full credit history.
Around 77 percent of New Zealanders have a score of between 500 and 1000. The average is 526, while a good score is considered to be above 600.
The score the website shows is generated from data held one credit reporting company, Dun and Bradstreet. There are two other companies that hold credit records in New Zealand, Veda Advantage and Centrix.
To get your full credit history, a consumer has to contact all three companies. It is a free service, unless you are in a hurry.
Credit Simple says New Zealanders can now access one part of their credit score in one place, immediately for free.
Credit Simple CEO David Scognamiglio said Kiwis can use their score to negotiate a better deal from banks, energy companies or telecommunications providers.
More information on credit reports can be found on the Government's website. It gives advice on how to check your report and what to do if you think it is wrong.
If you discover credit accounts you have never applied for or authorised, you may have been the victim of identity fraud and someone else is racking up debt in your name.
Newshub.
