Who accepts you
Catalogues that accept bad credit
Not every catalogue makes decisions the same way. Some live and die by your credit score. Others look at whether the repayments fit your budget now. Knowing which is which saves you a string of refusals.
Why mainstream catalogues say no
Big-name catalogue accounts are usually revolving credit, a lot like a store card. They run a hard search and compare your score with a fixed cut-off. Miss it by a point and the answer is no, however steady your income is today.
The kinds that look past an old score
- Affordability-led plans: they focus on what you can comfortably repay each week or month.
- Fixed-term plans: a set number of equal payments, so the balance can't creep up.
- Soft-search checks: a look that other lenders can't see, so it won't knock your score.
What they'll still want to know
Expect to confirm your identity, address history and a payment card in your name. Some ask for a small first payment before delivery. It shows the plan is working for you before larger items are sent.
Signs a "guaranteed acceptance" claim isn't right
No responsible provider guarantees acceptance. Be wary of upfront fees to "unlock" a limit, or anyone who won't tell you the total you'll repay.