If you have bad credit, you might be worried about getting a contract phone. Contract phones are popular because they often come with better deals than pay-as-you-go options. However, they usually require a credit check, and if you have a low credit score, you could be turned down. But don’t worry, there are still ways to get a contract phone with bad credit.
Start by Checking Your Credit Score
Before applying for a contract phone with bad credit, it’s important to check your credit score. This will give you an idea of how likely you are to be approved for a contract phone and can help you identify areas where you may need to improve your credit score. You can check your credit score for free through a credit reference agency like Equifax. Your credit score is based on several factors, including your payment history, outstanding debts, and credit utilisation, so the higher your credit score, the more likely you are to be approved for a contract phone with favorable terms. If your credit score is low, you may need to take steps to improve it before applying for a contract phone.
How to Get a Contract Phone With Bad Credit Through a Specialist Provider
If you have bad credit, you may want to consider looking for specialist providers who offer contract phones to people with poor credit scores. These providers will often have different criteria for approval than traditional providers and may be more willing to work with you to find a suitable plan. These providers offer contract phones with varying levels of credit checks and may require a larger upfront payment or a higher monthly fee. While the deals offered by specialist providers may not be as favorable as those offered by traditional providers, they can be a viable option if you’re struggling to get approved elsewhere.
How to Get a Phone Contract With Bad Credit Using a Guarantor
If you’re struggling to get a contract phone with bad credit, one option is to get a guarantor. A guarantor is someone who agrees to pay your bill if you’re unable to. This could be a family member or friend with a good credit score. Some providers will allow you to add a guarantor to your account, which can increase your chances of being approved, so having a guarantor can give the provider more confidence that the bill will be paid on time, even if you are unable to make the payments. It’s important to choose a guarantor who has a good credit score and who you trust to make the payments on your behalf. It’s also important to make sure that you can afford the monthly payments, even with the help of a guarantor.
Consider SIM-Only Deals
If you’re battling to get approved for a contract phone, you may want to consider a SIM-only deal. These deals allow you to use your existing phone and simply pay for the minutes, texts, and data that you use. SIM-only deals are often cheaper than contract phones and do not require a credit check, making them a viable option for those with bad credit. One of the benefits of SIM-only deals is that they are often flexible. You can choose how much data you need each month and can switch providers or plans if your needs change. However, it’s important to note that with SIM-only deals, you will need to purchase the phone outright or already have a phone that is compatible with the provider’s network, which could make things a bit more complicated for you.
Try to Improve Your Credit Score
Improving your credit score can increase your chances of getting a contract phone with bad credit. There are several steps you can take to improve your credit score, like paying bills on time, as late payments can harm your credit score, so it’s important to pay your bills on time each month. You should also reduce your debt because high levels of debt can make it difficult to get approved for credit. Being registered on the electoral roll can also improve your credit score, as it provides proof of your address. Know that improving your credit score takes time, but it can have a significant impact on your ability to get approved for credit in the future.
Choose a Lower-End Phone Model
If you’re struggling to get approved for a contract phone, it may be worth considering a lower-end phone model. High-end phones can be expensive and may require a higher credit score to qualify for a contract. Opting for a lower-end phone can reduce the amount you need to pay upfront and may make it easier to get approved for a contract phone. Additionally, lower-end models can still offer a range of features and functionality, making them a viable option for many people. When choosing a lower-end phone, it’s important to consider your needs and budget, so you may be able to find a phone that meets your needs at a lower price point than a high-end phone. It’s also important to read reviews and compare features to make sure that the phone meets your requirements.
Offer to Pay a Larger Deposit
Another way to improve your chances of getting a contract phone with bad credit is by offering to pay a larger deposit, which reduces the risk to the provider and can help to offset your poor credit score. Some providers may be willing to offer you a contract phone if you’re able to pay a larger deposit upfront, and the amount of the deposit required will vary depending on the provider and the type of phone you want to purchase. Typically, the deposit required will be a percentage of the total cost of the phone. It’s important to make sure that you can afford the larger deposit before agreeing to it. While it can improve your chances of getting a contract phone, it will also mean that you’ll have to pay more upfront. Additionally, it’s worth noting that not all providers offer this option, so it’s important to check with the provider before making any commitments.
Compare Providers and Deals
When looking for a contract phone with bad credit, it’s important to compare providers and deals. Different providers have different criteria for approval and may offer different deals depending on your credit score. Taking the time to research different providers and deals can help you find the one that best suits your needs and budget. You may also be able to find deals that offer incentives, such as free gifts or discounted rates for the first few months of the contract if you take the time to explore all the options available to you. It’s also important to read the terms and conditions of any contract carefully before signing up to ensure that you understand the costs involved and the length of the contract.
Provide Evidence of Income
If you have a low credit score, one way to improve your chances of getting a contract phone is by providing evidence of income. This can be particularly useful if you’re in a stable job or receive regular benefits payments. By providing evidence of income, you can demonstrate to the provider that you have a reliable source of income and can afford to make the monthly payments on the contract phone. Some providers may be willing to overlook a low credit score if you can show that you have a steady income, but it’s still important to note that evidence of income alone may not be enough to guarantee approval. Providers will still assess your credit score and credit history before making a decision.
Negotiate With Providers
Negotiating with providers is an effective way to get a contract phone with bad credit, but it involves reaching out to the provider and asking if they can offer you a better deal, such as waiving the credit check, lowering the deposit or monthly fee, or offering you a more affordable phone. When negotiating with providers, it’s important to be polite and professional, explain your situation, and why you’re interested in a contract phone. Emphasise your willingness to pay the bill on time each month and your commitment to the provider. If you have any positive factors that could help your case, such as a long-standing relationship with the provider, make sure to mention them, as this can only help to build trust and increase your chances of getting a better deal.
Remember, improving your credit score can also have a significant impact on your ability to get approved for credit in the future. Taking steps to improve your credit score, such as paying bills on time and reducing your debt, can have a long-term positive effect on your financial situation. In the end, getting a contract phone with bad credit may require some extra effort, but with the right approach, it is possible to find a phone that meets your needs and fits your budget.