Can you get a refurbished phone with bad credit?

Bad credit can get in the way when it comes to buying new - from phones to cars to houses. Not only does it limit your options, but it can hold you back from being approved for finance and credit agreements. 

Or so we thought. 

Refurbished phones can make the whole process a lot more affordable, and when combined with a SIM-only contract with no credit check, you can get your hands on a quality phone, without the eye-watering cost. 

In this blog, we’ll talk you through some of the possible reasons your credit score has dipped recently, why you should consider a refurbished phone, and how to get one on a contract without worrying about your credit history. 

Reasons for bad credit 

For many, a low to bad credit score is a result of some poor decisions with a lack of understanding of the subject. However, there are some common factors which lead to a score decrease, making it difficult to turn around. 

Here are the common reasons people have bad credit scores: 

Missed payments 

Being unable to make repayments in full and on time shows lenders you struggle to manage your finances and budget yourself throughout the month. If potential lenders see this activity, you’ll be classed as a risk, as there’s no indication you’ll pay back the money from the loan.   

Country court judgements (CCJs) 

A CCJ is a court order in England, Wales and Northern Ireland that’s issued if you don’t repay the money you owe. You will be given a deadline and total amount and be expected to pay this. 

If you have a CCJ on your credit report, this also shows you struggle to meet financial obligations, indicating a higher risk to potential lenders.

High credit utilisation 

Relying on credit types can indicate financial strain, lowering your score. 

Applying for a lot of credit often means many hard credit checks will be conducted on you, meaning each inquiry can temporarily decrease your score and signal to lenders that you may be taking on too much debt.

Bankruptcy

Filing for bankruptcy can stay on your report for up to six years, which will be seen by lenders and credit agencies when they conduct a hard credit search. 

Benefits of a refurbished phone

Refurbished phones are pre-owned models that have been restored to their factory settings, repairing any faults and deep cleaning all parts of the device. 

Similarly to new models, you can get refurbished phones on a contract, paying off the total each month for a set amount of times (usually 24-36 months), or buy it outright. 

Cost

The main advantage of a refurbished phone is the cost. Because of their second-hand status, they’re much cheaper than brand-new models. With the option to choose between a grade A (basically new with no scratches or marks, with the original packaging and accessories) or grade B (some small marks or scratches, with only cosmetic damage), you can choose a model that aligns with your budget. 

Warranty

Often sold by the brand as a refurbished model, you should be able to get a similar warranty and insurance type as a brand-new phone when you make the purchase. 

Quality

All refurbished phones are fully functioning, with any broken parts replaced. Because of this, you’ll still have access to the latest features and tech (available on that model), making it feel like a new phone. 

Bad credit phone contracts: What you need to know 

It’s a common misconception that you can’t get approved for credit types and personal loans if you’ve got a low credit score, or have had issues with credit in the past. 

However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. 

Tailored bad credit phone contracts from Boshhh aren’t just designed for customers with poor credit, but to help those who have struggled in the past to get back on the ladder and improve their financial freedom. 

Combined with a refurbished mobile phone, you don’t have to worry about large downpayments or monthly fees, just a customisable plan you can afford.  

With Boshhh, you don’t have to worry about the added cost of a new phone. Our SIM or E-SIM deals are compatible with any phone - refurbished or not - so you can truly cater your outgoings to your budget. 

Learn more with Boshhh 

Ready to improve your credit score with an affordable SIM-only phone contract?

Get started today and start building a brighter financial future!