People could suffer financially if they do not register to vote at their current address, credit referencing agency Experian has warned.

Many providers of mortgages, loans and other financial services use the electoral roll to verify details such as a customer's name and address – and if the figures do not match then difficulties may ensue, possibly resulting in the denial of the service.

Jill Stevens, Experian's director of consumer affairs, explained: "Being registered to vote at your current address can be crucial to gaining access to financial services because organisations use this information to help confirm your identity, not only when you apply for credit but at other times, like when you open a bank account.

"The credit reference agency databases are updated monthly, so there is no excuse not to register with your local council as soon as you move."

Other proofs of address such as gas or electricity bills are also accepted by credit referencing agencies – and should be used in the event that you are not eligible to vote, in which case a note should also be placed on your credit file by way of explanation for your not being on the electoral roll.