Brad Tierney
General Manager at ClearScore
How to check your credit score in South Africa: a simple guide
06 November 2026
12 min read
Contents
Key takeawaysThe short answerWhy checking your credit score mattersHow to check your credit score online in South AfricaHow to check your credit reportHow to check your credit score with your ID number in South AfricaHow to check your credit score on the Capitec appHow to check your credit score using ClearScoreHow credit scores work in South AfricaWhat to do after checking your credit scoreHow to improve your credit scoreHow credit checks affect your credit scoreUsing your credit score to compare financial productsCommon problems when checking a credit scoreFrequently asked questions about checking your credit scoreChecking your credit score and report is easier than you might think, and ClearScore provides your credit score and report for free.
Key takeaways
Your credit report holds the information about your borrowing history, while your credit score is a number based on that information.
You can check your score for free through bank apps, credit bureaus and online platforms, so you rarely need to pay for it.
Checking your own score does not harm it. Usually, only lender applications leave a mark that others can see.
You are entitled to one free credit report a year from each major credit bureau in South Africa.
Scores may differ between bureaus because each one can hold different information and use its own scale.
With ClearScore you can see your Experian credit score and full report for free, as often as you like.
The short answer
You can check your credit score online for free using a bank app, a credit bureau or a platform like ClearScore. Most services ask for your South African ID number and a few personal details to confirm who you are. Checking your own score is safe and does not lower it. Reviewing your report alongside your score helps you spot errors or unfamiliar activity early.
Why checking your credit score matters
What is a credit score?
Your credit score is a number based on the information in your credit report. It gives you an indication of how lenders may view your credit history. It is a snapshot, not a judgement of you as a person.
What is the difference between a credit score and a credit report?
Your credit report is a record of your borrowing history, such as credit accounts, repayment activity and personal details. Your score summarises that information in a single number. The report is the detail; the score is the headline.
How can your credit score affect borrowing?
Lenders may use your score as one part of their decision when you apply for credit. A higher score could mean more options or better rates, depending on your circumstances. A lower score may limit the options available to you, but it does not define your financial future.
How often should you check your credit score?
There is no single right answer. Many people check monthly, or before applying for something important like a home loan or car finance.
How to check your credit score online in South Africa
How to check your credit score online for free
Several free routes exist. Bank apps are a common starting point, and Standard Bank says its Credit Score add-on gives monthly score updates, along with score trends and tips[^2]. Old Mutual offers a free credit score check online through its CreditView tool, where registration is free and you can see your score and the factors that make up your credit report[^5]. ClearScore gives free, unlimited access to your Experian score and report[^3].
Where to check | Typical cost | How often |
|---|---|---|
| Where to check Bank app (e.g. Standard Bank, Capitec) | Typical cost Free, sometimes an add-on | How often Usually monthly |
| Where to check ClearScore | Typical cost Free | How often Unlimited |
| Where to check Credit bureau direct | Typical cost One free report a year | How often Extra reports may carry a fee |
| Where to check Insurer or lender tools (e.g. CreditView) | Typical cost Free | How often Varies |
How to check your credit score with your ID number
Most South African platforms use your 13-digit ID number to find your credit profile. Nedbank notes that you can create an account using your South African ID number and receive your credit report within minutes[^4].
What information do you need to complete a credit score check?
Your South African ID number
Your full name as it appears on your ID
A valid email address and mobile number
Your current address
Answers to a few security questions about past accounts
Does checking your own credit score affect your score?
No. Looking at your own information is a soft check. It does not lower your score.
How long does it take to access your score?
Usually minutes, once your identity is verified. Occasionally verification takes longer if your details need manual review.
How to check your credit report
How to request your free credit report
South African consumers are entitled to one free credit report per year from each registered credit bureau[^1]. You can request it directly from the bureau by email, phone or their website.
How to check your credit report online
Register with a bureau or an online platform, verify your identity, then open your report. You can usually download a PDF copy.
How to check your report with a credit bureau
The main registered bureaus include Experian (which acquired Compuscan in 2019), TransUnion and XDS. Each has its own online portal and contact centre.
How to check reports from multiple credit bureaus
Lenders do not all report to every bureau, so checking more than one can give you a fuller picture. Experian says its platforms can offer free unlimited access to credit information[^1].
What to look for in your credit report
Your name, ID number and address
Previous addresses
Open and closed accounts
Payment history and current balances
Credit limits
Recent applications
Anything you do not recognise
How to check your credit score with your ID number in South Africa
Credit score check with ID number: step-by-step process
Choose a trusted service.
Enter your ID number and personal details.
Complete identity verification.
Open your score and report.
Review the information carefully.
What to do if your ID number cannot be verified
Check for typing errors first. If it still fails, contact the service or bureau directly. They may ask for a copy of your ID.
Can you check a credit score without an ID number?
Generally no. Your ID number is the main way bureaus match records to the right person.
How to protect your ID number online
Only share it on secure, well-known platforms. Avoid sending it over social media or to unverified "credit clearance" offers.
Is a credit score check with an ID number safe?
With a reputable, registered provider it is a standard and secure process. Always check the website address before entering details.
How to check your credit score on the Capitec app
Where to find Credit Health in the Capitec app
Open the app, sign in, then look under the Credit or Transact sections for a credit health or credit score option. Menu names may change as the app updates.
How to view your score and credit insights
Tap through to see your score and any insights about what may be influencing it.
Does checking your score on the Capitec app affect your credit rating?
No. It is a soft check on your own information.
What to do if the credit score feature is unavailable
Update the app, check your connection, or try again later. You can also use a bureau or ClearScore in the meantime.
How often should you check your score in the app?
Monthly is a reasonable habit for most people.
How to check your credit score using ClearScore
With ClearScore you can see your Experian credit score and full credit report for free, with unlimited access, as Experian is the bureau that supplies ClearScore's South African data[^3].
How to create a ClearScore account
Sign up with your email address, create a password, then enter your ID number and personal details.
What information is needed for verification?
Your ID number, name, contact details and address.
How to view your credit score and full report
Once verified, your score and report appear in your dashboard.
How often is your ClearScore information updated?
Your information refreshes regularly, so you can track changes over time.
How ClearScore's personalised coaching can help
You can see which parts of your report may be influencing your score and get tailored suggestions. These are general insights, not financial advice, and results depend on your circumstances.
How ClearScore Protect helps monitor identity and fraud risks
Alerts can flag if details such as passwords linked to your email address appear in known data breaches. No service can prevent fraud entirely.
How credit scores work in South Africa
What information influences your credit score?
Payment history, how much you owe, your credit mix, the age of your accounts and recent applications.
Why credit scores differ between credit bureaus
Each bureau may hold different information and use its own scoring model and scale, and lenders may use their own scores and criteria, so the score a lender sees can differ from the one you see on ClearScore. No single score is the universal measure.
Factor | General influence |
|---|---|
| Factor Payment history | General influence Usually the largest influence |
| Factor Amounts owed | General influence Significant |
| Factor Credit history length | General influence Moderate |
| Factor New applications | General influence Smaller |
| Factor Credit mix | General influence Smaller |
What is considered a good credit score?
It depends on the scale used. ClearScore shows your Experian score, which runs from 0 to 740, where 634-657 is Looking bright and 658-740 is Soaring high. Higher generally signals lower perceived risk.
How payment history affects your score
On-time payments tend to support your score. Missed payments may count against it.
How credit utilisation affects your score
Credit utilisation means how much of your available credit you are using. Using less of your limit may be viewed more favourably.
How credit applications affect your score
Several applications close together may suggest you are under pressure for credit.
What to do after checking your credit score
How to read your credit score
Look at the number, the provider's range, and the factors listed beneath it.
How to identify negative information
Watch for missed payments, defaults, judgments and accounts in arrears.
How to dispute incorrect information
Contact the organisation that supplied the information, then the bureau if needed. Keep records. Incorrect information can be disputed. Accurate information generally remains for the applicable retention period, but qualifying adverse listings and judgments must be removed after settlement under the statutory process set out in the National Credit Act.
How to improve a low credit score
If your score sits in the Let's start climbing band (0-598), focus on consistent habits over time rather than quick fixes.
How to build a credit history
A small, well-managed account used responsibly can help build a record over time.
When to seek professional financial guidance
If debt feels unmanageable, you may wish to speak to a registered debt counsellor or an FSCA-authorised financial services provider.
How to improve your credit score
Pay accounts on time. Debit orders and reminders can help.
Reduce outstanding debt. Lower balances may ease pressure on your profile.
Think about credit utilisation. Balances close to your limits may be viewed less favourably by scoring models.
Avoid applying for too much credit. Space applications out where you can.
Review your credit report regularly. Errors are easier to fix early.
Settle defaults and outstanding accounts. Ask for written confirmation.
Protect yourself from identity theft. Guard your ID number and watch for unfamiliar accounts.
How credit checks affect your credit score
What is a soft credit check?
A soft check happens when you view your own information, or a provider makes a preliminary check. It does not affect your score.
What is a hard credit check?
A hard check is recorded when a lender reviews your report as part of a credit application. Other lenders can see it.
Do free credit score checks lower your score?
No.
Do loan eligibility checks affect your credit score?
Eligibility checks are usually soft checks. A hard check is normally only created by a full application.
How ClearScore loan and credit-card eligibility checks work
You can view offers you may be eligible for without a hard check. ClearScore is a credit broker, not a lender. Eligibility is not approval, and the lender decides.
Using your credit score to compare financial products
How to compare personal loan offers
Compare the total cost of credit, including interest, initiation fees and monthly service fees in Rands, not just the monthly repayment.
How to check loan eligibility without affecting your score
Use eligibility tools that run soft checks before you apply.
How to choose a credit card based on your profile
Cards differ on fees, interest rates and features, and what you are likely to qualify for depends on the lender.
How to compare car finance options
Look at the deposit, term, balloon payment, total repayable and what happens at the end of the agreement.
How to assess affordability before applying
Add up your income and expenses first. Lenders must carry out their own affordability assessment under South African credit rules.
Why pre-approved offers are not guaranteed approval
Pre-approval is based on limited information. Final decisions depend on the lender's full checks.
Common problems when checking a credit score
Problem | Possible next step |
|---|---|
| Problem Score unavailable | Possible next step Thin credit file or a technical issue. Try again later. |
| Problem Report shows incorrect information | Possible next step Contact the data provider, then the bureau. |
| Problem Paid-up account shows as unpaid | Possible next step Request a paid-up letter and send it to the bureau. |
| Problem ID verification fails | Possible next step Check for typos, then contact support. |
| Problem Score differs between platforms | Possible next step Different bureaus and models. Normal. |
| Problem Unrecognised account appears | Possible next step Report it promptly as possible fraud. |
To contact a bureau, use the contact details on its official website rather than details shared on social media.
Frequently asked questions about checking your credit score
How do I check my credit score online? Register with a bureau, bank app or platform like ClearScore, verify your identity, then view your score.
How do I check my credit score online for free? Free options include bank apps, ClearScore and tools such as Old Mutual's CreditView[^5].
How do I check my credit score on the Capitec app? Sign in and look for the credit health or credit score section.
How do I check my credit score with my ID number? Enter your 13-digit ID number during registration so the bureau can match your profile.
Does checking my own credit score affect it? No.
How often can I check my credit score? Platforms like ClearScore offer unlimited access, while bureaus provide one free report a year[^1][^3].
Which credit score is most accurate? None is automatically more accurate. Each bureau uses its own data and scale.
Can I check someone else's credit score? No, not without their consent.
What if my credit score is wrong? Raise a dispute with the data provider and the bureau.
Is ClearScore free in South Africa? Yes, you can see your Experian score and report at no cost[^3].
Ready to see where you stand? You can check your credit score and full credit report for free with ClearScore, as often as you like, and see what may be influencing your number.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute financial advice as defined by the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act (FAIS). Individual circumstances vary, and you may wish to seek advice from a licensed financial services provider before making financial decisions. Information is accurate at the time of writing and may change.
[^1]: Experian South Africa - https://www.experian.co.za/legal/trust-centre/consumer-trust-centre/data-rights/right-of-access
[^2]: Standard Bank South Africa - https://www.standardbank.co.za/southafrica/personal/products-and-services/ways-to-bank/help-centre/credit-score-add-on
[^3]: ClearScore South Africa - https://www.clearscore.com/za/learn/credit-score-and-report/a-guide-to-the-credit-bureaus-in-south-africa
[^4]: Nedbank - https://personal.nedbank.co.za/learn/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-your-credit-score.html
[^5]: Old Mutual - https://www.oldmutual.co.za/personal/solutions/bank-and-borrow/free-credit-score/
Brad Tierney
General Manager at ClearScore
06 November 2026
12 min read
Contents
Key takeawaysThe short answerWhy checking your credit score mattersHow to check your credit score online in South AfricaHow to check your credit reportHow to check your credit score with your ID number in South AfricaHow to check your credit score on the Capitec appHow to check your credit score using ClearScoreHow credit scores work in South AfricaWhat to do after checking your credit scoreHow to improve your credit scoreHow credit checks affect your credit scoreUsing your credit score to compare financial productsCommon problems when checking a credit scoreFrequently asked questions about checking your credit scoreMeet the author
General Manager at ClearScore
Brad Tierney
Brad has over 20 years in credit risk and underwriting: the work of deciding who gets access to credit and on what terms. He writes from the lender's side, cutting the jargon so you can understand your score and feel in control.
How to check your credit score in South Africa: a simple guide
Brad Tierney
General Manager at ClearScore
06 November 2026
12 min read
Contents
Key takeawaysThe short answerWhy checking your credit score mattersHow to check your credit score online in South AfricaHow to check your credit reportHow to check your credit score with your ID number in South AfricaHow to check your credit score on the Capitec appHow to check your credit score using ClearScoreHow credit scores work in South AfricaWhat to do after checking your credit scoreHow to improve your credit scoreHow credit checks affect your credit scoreUsing your credit score to compare financial productsCommon problems when checking a credit scoreFrequently asked questions about checking your credit scoreChecking your credit score and report is easier than you might think, and ClearScore provides your credit score and report for free.
Key takeaways
Your credit report holds the information about your borrowing history, while your credit score is a number based on that information.
You can check your score for free through bank apps, credit bureaus and online platforms, so you rarely need to pay for it.
Checking your own score does not harm it. Usually, only lender applications leave a mark that others can see.
You are entitled to one free credit report a year from each major credit bureau in South Africa.
Scores may differ between bureaus because each one can hold different information and use its own scale.
With ClearScore you can see your Experian credit score and full report for free, as often as you like.
The short answer
You can check your credit score online for free using a bank app, a credit bureau or a platform like ClearScore. Most services ask for your South African ID number and a few personal details to confirm who you are. Checking your own score is safe and does not lower it. Reviewing your report alongside your score helps you spot errors or unfamiliar activity early.
Why checking your credit score matters
What is a credit score?
Your credit score is a number based on the information in your credit report. It gives you an indication of how lenders may view your credit history. It is a snapshot, not a judgement of you as a person.
What is the difference between a credit score and a credit report?
Your credit report is a record of your borrowing history, such as credit accounts, repayment activity and personal details. Your score summarises that information in a single number. The report is the detail; the score is the headline.
How can your credit score affect borrowing?
Lenders may use your score as one part of their decision when you apply for credit. A higher score could mean more options or better rates, depending on your circumstances. A lower score may limit the options available to you, but it does not define your financial future.
How often should you check your credit score?
There is no single right answer. Many people check monthly, or before applying for something important like a home loan or car finance.
How to check your credit score online in South Africa
How to check your credit score online for free
Several free routes exist. Bank apps are a common starting point, and Standard Bank says its Credit Score add-on gives monthly score updates, along with score trends and tips[^2]. Old Mutual offers a free credit score check online through its CreditView tool, where registration is free and you can see your score and the factors that make up your credit report[^5]. ClearScore gives free, unlimited access to your Experian score and report[^3].
Where to check | Typical cost | How often |
|---|---|---|
| Where to check Bank app (e.g. Standard Bank, Capitec) | Typical cost Free, sometimes an add-on | How often Usually monthly |
| Where to check ClearScore | Typical cost Free | How often Unlimited |
| Where to check Credit bureau direct | Typical cost One free report a year | How often Extra reports may carry a fee |
| Where to check Insurer or lender tools (e.g. CreditView) | Typical cost Free | How often Varies |
How to check your credit score with your ID number
Most South African platforms use your 13-digit ID number to find your credit profile. Nedbank notes that you can create an account using your South African ID number and receive your credit report within minutes[^4].
What information do you need to complete a credit score check?
Your South African ID number
Your full name as it appears on your ID
A valid email address and mobile number
Your current address
Answers to a few security questions about past accounts
Does checking your own credit score affect your score?
No. Looking at your own information is a soft check. It does not lower your score.
How long does it take to access your score?
Usually minutes, once your identity is verified. Occasionally verification takes longer if your details need manual review.
How to check your credit report
How to request your free credit report
South African consumers are entitled to one free credit report per year from each registered credit bureau[^1]. You can request it directly from the bureau by email, phone or their website.
How to check your credit report online
Register with a bureau or an online platform, verify your identity, then open your report. You can usually download a PDF copy.
How to check your report with a credit bureau
The main registered bureaus include Experian (which acquired Compuscan in 2019), TransUnion and XDS. Each has its own online portal and contact centre.
How to check reports from multiple credit bureaus
Lenders do not all report to every bureau, so checking more than one can give you a fuller picture. Experian says its platforms can offer free unlimited access to credit information[^1].
What to look for in your credit report
Your name, ID number and address
Previous addresses
Open and closed accounts
Payment history and current balances
Credit limits
Recent applications
Anything you do not recognise
How to check your credit score with your ID number in South Africa
Credit score check with ID number: step-by-step process
Choose a trusted service.
Enter your ID number and personal details.
Complete identity verification.
Open your score and report.
Review the information carefully.
What to do if your ID number cannot be verified
Check for typing errors first. If it still fails, contact the service or bureau directly. They may ask for a copy of your ID.
Can you check a credit score without an ID number?
Generally no. Your ID number is the main way bureaus match records to the right person.
How to protect your ID number online
Only share it on secure, well-known platforms. Avoid sending it over social media or to unverified "credit clearance" offers.
Is a credit score check with an ID number safe?
With a reputable, registered provider it is a standard and secure process. Always check the website address before entering details.
How to check your credit score on the Capitec app
Where to find Credit Health in the Capitec app
Open the app, sign in, then look under the Credit or Transact sections for a credit health or credit score option. Menu names may change as the app updates.
How to view your score and credit insights
Tap through to see your score and any insights about what may be influencing it.
Does checking your score on the Capitec app affect your credit rating?
No. It is a soft check on your own information.
What to do if the credit score feature is unavailable
Update the app, check your connection, or try again later. You can also use a bureau or ClearScore in the meantime.
How often should you check your score in the app?
Monthly is a reasonable habit for most people.
How to check your credit score using ClearScore
With ClearScore you can see your Experian credit score and full credit report for free, with unlimited access, as Experian is the bureau that supplies ClearScore's South African data[^3].
How to create a ClearScore account
Sign up with your email address, create a password, then enter your ID number and personal details.
What information is needed for verification?
Your ID number, name, contact details and address.
How to view your credit score and full report
Once verified, your score and report appear in your dashboard.
How often is your ClearScore information updated?
Your information refreshes regularly, so you can track changes over time.
How ClearScore's personalised coaching can help
You can see which parts of your report may be influencing your score and get tailored suggestions. These are general insights, not financial advice, and results depend on your circumstances.
How ClearScore Protect helps monitor identity and fraud risks
Alerts can flag if details such as passwords linked to your email address appear in known data breaches. No service can prevent fraud entirely.
How credit scores work in South Africa
What information influences your credit score?
Payment history, how much you owe, your credit mix, the age of your accounts and recent applications.
Why credit scores differ between credit bureaus
Each bureau may hold different information and use its own scoring model and scale, and lenders may use their own scores and criteria, so the score a lender sees can differ from the one you see on ClearScore. No single score is the universal measure.
Factor | General influence |
|---|---|
| Factor Payment history | General influence Usually the largest influence |
| Factor Amounts owed | General influence Significant |
| Factor Credit history length | General influence Moderate |
| Factor New applications | General influence Smaller |
| Factor Credit mix | General influence Smaller |
What is considered a good credit score?
It depends on the scale used. ClearScore shows your Experian score, which runs from 0 to 740, where 634-657 is Looking bright and 658-740 is Soaring high. Higher generally signals lower perceived risk.
How payment history affects your score
On-time payments tend to support your score. Missed payments may count against it.
How credit utilisation affects your score
Credit utilisation means how much of your available credit you are using. Using less of your limit may be viewed more favourably.
How credit applications affect your score
Several applications close together may suggest you are under pressure for credit.
What to do after checking your credit score
How to read your credit score
Look at the number, the provider's range, and the factors listed beneath it.
How to identify negative information
Watch for missed payments, defaults, judgments and accounts in arrears.
How to dispute incorrect information
Contact the organisation that supplied the information, then the bureau if needed. Keep records. Incorrect information can be disputed. Accurate information generally remains for the applicable retention period, but qualifying adverse listings and judgments must be removed after settlement under the statutory process set out in the National Credit Act.
How to improve a low credit score
If your score sits in the Let's start climbing band (0-598), focus on consistent habits over time rather than quick fixes.
How to build a credit history
A small, well-managed account used responsibly can help build a record over time.
When to seek professional financial guidance
If debt feels unmanageable, you may wish to speak to a registered debt counsellor or an FSCA-authorised financial services provider.
How to improve your credit score
Pay accounts on time. Debit orders and reminders can help.
Reduce outstanding debt. Lower balances may ease pressure on your profile.
Think about credit utilisation. Balances close to your limits may be viewed less favourably by scoring models.
Avoid applying for too much credit. Space applications out where you can.
Review your credit report regularly. Errors are easier to fix early.
Settle defaults and outstanding accounts. Ask for written confirmation.
Protect yourself from identity theft. Guard your ID number and watch for unfamiliar accounts.
How credit checks affect your credit score
What is a soft credit check?
A soft check happens when you view your own information, or a provider makes a preliminary check. It does not affect your score.
What is a hard credit check?
A hard check is recorded when a lender reviews your report as part of a credit application. Other lenders can see it.
Do free credit score checks lower your score?
No.
Do loan eligibility checks affect your credit score?
Eligibility checks are usually soft checks. A hard check is normally only created by a full application.
How ClearScore loan and credit-card eligibility checks work
You can view offers you may be eligible for without a hard check. ClearScore is a credit broker, not a lender. Eligibility is not approval, and the lender decides.
Using your credit score to compare financial products
How to compare personal loan offers
Compare the total cost of credit, including interest, initiation fees and monthly service fees in Rands, not just the monthly repayment.
How to check loan eligibility without affecting your score
Use eligibility tools that run soft checks before you apply.
How to choose a credit card based on your profile
Cards differ on fees, interest rates and features, and what you are likely to qualify for depends on the lender.
How to compare car finance options
Look at the deposit, term, balloon payment, total repayable and what happens at the end of the agreement.
How to assess affordability before applying
Add up your income and expenses first. Lenders must carry out their own affordability assessment under South African credit rules.
Why pre-approved offers are not guaranteed approval
Pre-approval is based on limited information. Final decisions depend on the lender's full checks.
Common problems when checking a credit score
Problem | Possible next step |
|---|---|
| Problem Score unavailable | Possible next step Thin credit file or a technical issue. Try again later. |
| Problem Report shows incorrect information | Possible next step Contact the data provider, then the bureau. |
| Problem Paid-up account shows as unpaid | Possible next step Request a paid-up letter and send it to the bureau. |
| Problem ID verification fails | Possible next step Check for typos, then contact support. |
| Problem Score differs between platforms | Possible next step Different bureaus and models. Normal. |
| Problem Unrecognised account appears | Possible next step Report it promptly as possible fraud. |
To contact a bureau, use the contact details on its official website rather than details shared on social media.
Frequently asked questions about checking your credit score
How do I check my credit score online? Register with a bureau, bank app or platform like ClearScore, verify your identity, then view your score.
How do I check my credit score online for free? Free options include bank apps, ClearScore and tools such as Old Mutual's CreditView[^5].
How do I check my credit score on the Capitec app? Sign in and look for the credit health or credit score section.
How do I check my credit score with my ID number? Enter your 13-digit ID number during registration so the bureau can match your profile.
Does checking my own credit score affect it? No.
How often can I check my credit score? Platforms like ClearScore offer unlimited access, while bureaus provide one free report a year[^1][^3].
Which credit score is most accurate? None is automatically more accurate. Each bureau uses its own data and scale.
Can I check someone else's credit score? No, not without their consent.
What if my credit score is wrong? Raise a dispute with the data provider and the bureau.
Is ClearScore free in South Africa? Yes, you can see your Experian score and report at no cost[^3].
Ready to see where you stand? You can check your credit score and full credit report for free with ClearScore, as often as you like, and see what may be influencing your number.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute financial advice as defined by the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act (FAIS). Individual circumstances vary, and you may wish to seek advice from a licensed financial services provider before making financial decisions. Information is accurate at the time of writing and may change.
[^1]: Experian South Africa - https://www.experian.co.za/legal/trust-centre/consumer-trust-centre/data-rights/right-of-access
[^2]: Standard Bank South Africa - https://www.standardbank.co.za/southafrica/personal/products-and-services/ways-to-bank/help-centre/credit-score-add-on
[^3]: ClearScore South Africa - https://www.clearscore.com/za/learn/credit-score-and-report/a-guide-to-the-credit-bureaus-in-south-africa
[^4]: Nedbank - https://personal.nedbank.co.za/learn/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-your-credit-score.html
[^5]: Old Mutual - https://www.oldmutual.co.za/personal/solutions/bank-and-borrow/free-credit-score/
Brad Tierney
General Manager at ClearScore
06 November 2026
12 min read
Contents
Key takeawaysThe short answerWhy checking your credit score mattersHow to check your credit score online in South AfricaHow to check your credit reportHow to check your credit score with your ID number in South AfricaHow to check your credit score on the Capitec appHow to check your credit score using ClearScoreHow credit scores work in South AfricaWhat to do after checking your credit scoreHow to improve your credit scoreHow credit checks affect your credit scoreUsing your credit score to compare financial productsCommon problems when checking a credit scoreFrequently asked questions about checking your credit scoreMeet the author
General Manager at ClearScore
Brad Tierney
Brad has over 20 years in credit risk and underwriting: the work of deciding who gets access to credit and on what terms. He writes from the lender's side, cutting the jargon so you can understand your score and feel in control.