Disclosure: Some links are sponsored. If you try a sponsored service, such as Borrowell, we may earn a commission.
In Canada, your credit history is kept by two main credit bureaus, Equifax and TransUnion. Scores generally range from 300 to 900. You can check your credit for free, and checking your own score doesn't hurt it.
1. Know the two bureaus
Equifax Canada and TransUnion Canada each keep a credit report on you. Lenders may use either, and the scores can differ.
2. Get your free credit report
Both bureaus give you your credit report free, online or by mail (TransUnion calls it a Consumer Disclosure). Equifax also gives a free credit score in every province and territory. TransUnion's free score is only included for residents of Ontario and Quebec. Some banks also show a free score in their app.
3. Use a free score service
Borrowell offers a free Equifax credit score and report, updated weekly. It says it earns referral fees from partners when you're approved for a loan, card or other product it recommends, so you'll see offers. You don't have to take any.
4. Checking your own score is a soft check
Viewing your own score doesn't lower it. Hard checks happen when you apply for credit.
5. Pay on time, every time
Payment history is the biggest factor. Set up automatic minimum payments as a safety net.
6. Keep utilization low
Try to use well under your credit limits; many guides suggest under about 30%.
7. Keep old accounts open
A longer credit history usually helps, so think twice before closing your oldest card.
8. Limit new applications
Several hard checks in a short time can lower your score.
9. Dispute errors
If something on your report is wrong, file a dispute with the bureau directly. It's free.
Bonus: Printable Credit Health Checklist
A one-page checklist to review your credit reports and track your score.
How the unlock works: to get the bonus you'll be asked to try one sponsored app or offer from our partner. It's optional, the guide above is complete without it, and the sponsor pays us when you complete their offer. Only do it if the app genuinely interests you.
Unlock the credit checklist (requires trying a sponsored service)
More guides
- Equifax vs TransUnion in Canada: What's the Difference?
- Borrowell: How the Free Credit Score Works
- How to Improve Your Credit Score in Canada
- How to Dispute an Error on Your Canadian Credit Report
- What Is a Good Credit Score in Canada?
- How Long Do Late Payments Stay on Your Credit Report in Canada?
- How to Build Credit as a Newcomer to Canada