We don't like paying to see credit files

When people are rejected for credit, they are usually told to obtain a copy of their file from one of the two major credit-checking agencies, Experian or Equifax. The minimum payment, if you apply in writing, is £2.

You can also see it online, but it's not cheap. Experian will allow you to view your file for an entire year "real time" but the cost is £49.99. You can visit as many times as you like and post notices of correction without paying an additional fee.

Rivals Equifax offer a similar, more basic service, where you pay £8.25 each time you check your file online.

The agencies say the price charged for viewing your own file merely reflects administration costs. But it's worth noting that Experian made a £256m profit last year.