Caroline's journey to better credit
From being held back to moving forward with confidence, see how Caroline turned her story around with Aqua.
When you work for yourself, financial stability can feel like a balancing act. For Caroline, a freelancer, being in control of her finances was crucial. But when looking for credit cards she was shocked to be turned down – which knocked her confidence.
‘I’ve always been worried about financial insecurity. I think I realised I had a low credit score when shopping around for credit cards. The other lenders were rejecting me.’
Like many freelancers, Caroline had never needed access to credit before. So, when she found herself being declined, it felt personal. That’s when she began exploring credit cards for bad credit, hoping to find one that offered her a fair shot.
A yes that made all the difference
Getting a responsible yes from Aqua, after a full assessment of her financial circumstances, helped Caroline a great deal. ‘I was really ecstatic when Aqua approved my credit card. It’s helped me to just manage my finances in a positive way,’ she says. Everyone’s situation is different, and whether you’re approved for credit depends on your individual financial status.
With Aqua, Caroline began taking control of her finances. By managing her credit card carefully and always paying on time, she began to see improvements – not just in her credit score, but in her confidence too.
A personalised credit limit
Because Caroline managed her account well, she became eligible for a credit limit increase.* This was a key turning point for her. It wasn’t about spending more, it was about knowing she had the flexibility if she needed it. That sense of control helped Caroline manage her finances with less stress and more peace of mind. As someone used to budgeting irregular income, this extra breathing space helped her feel more confident.. As someone used to budgeting irregular income, this extra breathing space helped her feel more confident.
‘My credit limit has grown really nicely over time.’
Building credit, building confidence
Caroline’s story is a reminder that with the right credit card, building better credit is possible. ‘My confidence has gone through the roof. It’s a great feeling and a great place to be.
If you’re self-employed or a freelancer and feel stuck, Caroline’s journey shows that there could be a way forward. With Aqua Coach offering smart tools and access to expert guidance every step of the way, you don’t have to do it alone. The right support and the right card could help you rebuild your confidence and your credit score. It just takes consistency and responsible account management.
Caroline is one of thousands of people who’ve improved their credit score with Aqua. Explore how you could build your credit responsibly.
Representative 34.9% APR (variable)
*With Aqua, your credit limit could grow if you manage your account well.
Disclaimer: Failure to make payments on time or to stay within your credit limit means that you will pay additional charges and may make obtaining credit in the future more expensive and difficult.
Failure to make payments on time or to stay within your credit limit means that you will pay additional charges and may make obtaining credit in the future more expensive and difficult.
Contributors
Vanessa Stewart
Vanessa is an editor at Aqua.
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