Credit card utilisation calculator
By The Income Tracker · Updated 16 June 2026
The short answerUtilisation is the share of your credit limit you are using. UK lenders like to see it low. Under 30% is good, under 10% is even better. Enter your balance and limit to see where you stand.
Why utilisation matters
It is one of the biggest levers on your credit score, and one of the easiest to move. Pay a chunk off before your statement date and your reported utilisation drops, often within a month. Lenders read low utilisation as a sign you are in control rather than stretched.
Quick ways to lower it
- Pay down the balance, ideally before the statement date.
- Ask for a higher credit limit and then do not use it.
- Spread spending across cards instead of maxing one.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a good credit utilisation in the UK?
- Under 30% is the usual guidance, and under 10% is even better. High utilisation can pull your credit score down.
- How is credit utilisation calculated?
- Total balance divided by total credit limit, as a percentage. So £1,500 owed on a £5,000 limit is 30%.
- Does checking this affect my credit score?
- No. This calculator runs in your browser and does not touch your credit file.
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