What is the Central Credit Register?

The Central Credit Register (CCR), established by the Central Bank of Ireland under the Credit Reporting Act 2013, is a secure national database that collects and maintains personal and credit information on loans of €500 or more.

How Does the CCR Work?

1. First Choice Credit Union submits personal and credit information on existing loans of €500 or more and loan applications of €2,000 or more to the CCR.
2. The CCR processes this data to create accurate, up-to-date credit reports for borrowers.
3. Every time a credit report is accessed by a lender or borrower, a digital footprint is recorded to maintain transparency.

Why is First Choice Credit Union a Member of the CCR?

As part of our commitment to responsible lending, First Choice Credit Union complies with legislation to protect its assets and help members avoid over-indebtedness.

The CCR provides:

• Borrowers with individual credit reports detailing all their credit agreements
• Lenders with comprehensive information to make informed credit decisions
• The Central Bank with insights into national credit trends

What Information Does First Choice Credit Union Submit to the CCR?

By law, First Choice Credit Union must submit your:

• Name
• Address
• Date of birth
• Personal Public Service Number (PPS Number)

The Central Credit Register (CCR) requires this information to accurately match your loans including any loans you may have with other lenders. We are also required to submit credit information each month for loans of €500 or more.

Your loan information is stored securely on the CCR and used to create your credit report. This information will remain on the CCR for five years after your loan has been repaid.

Beginning in early 2018, credit reports became available from the CCR. You may request your report at any time, and you are entitled to one free report per calendar year.

When Can Lenders Access Your Credit Report?

Lenders may only access your report in the following circumstances:

• When considering an application for a new loan
• If you request to change the terms of an existing loan
• If a loan is in arrears and under review

Important: Proof of PPS Number

Please include documentation showing your PPS Number with all future loan applications.

Acceptable proof must be an official document from either:

• The Revenue Commissioners, or
• The Department of Social and Family Affairs

Examples include:

• A copy of your Tax Credit Certificate
• Your Social Services Card

When Can I Access My Credit Report?

Starting early 2018, credit reports became available from the CCR. You can:

• Request your credit report anytime online
• Receive one free credit report each calendar year

What Documentation is Required?

Please provide proof of your PPS Number with all future loan applications. Acceptable documents include official Revenue or Social Welfare papers showing your name and PPS Number (e.g., tax credit certificates, Social Services Card).

Central Credit Register FAQ

Where can I get more information about the Central Credit Register?

• Website: www.centralcreditregister.ie
• Email: consumerinfo@centralcreditregister.ie
• Phone: LoCall 1890 100 050 | Landline 01 224 5500