Complete Guide to Fixing Credit File Errors & CCJ Removal
Errors on your credit file damage your credit score unfairly. You have the right to dispute inaccurate records and remove CCJs. This guide explains how to fix your credit file.
Key fact: You can request data correction from credit reference agencies at any time. Paid CCJs can be removed after 6 years. Defaults can be disputed if incorrect.
What are common credit file errors?
Common errors include defaults incorrectly recorded, settled debts still showing as active, duplicate accounts, accounts belonging to other people (identity theft), and inaccurate payment history.
Your rights under UK law
- Consumer Credit Act 1974: Grants rights to correct credit file information.
- Data Protection Act 2018: You have the right to accurate personal data. CRAs must update records if corrected.
- Right to add a notice of correction: If a CRA refuses to delete information, you can add a 200-character note explaining your position.
- CCJ removal after 6 years: CCJs drop off your file after 6 years (from judgment date).
- Early removal of paid CCJs: You can apply to court to have the judgment set aside if you have paid it and it was unjust.
Step-by-step credit file correction
- Request your credit file from all three CRAs. (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion).
- Identify inaccuracies. Check every account, payment date, and balance.
- Write to each CRA disputing the error. Provide evidence (bank statements, proof of payment, etc.).
- If CRA refuses to correct, add a notice of correction. This flags the dispute on your file.
- For unjust CCJs, apply to court for set aside. Courts can remove judgments if circumstances have changed or the judgment was technically wrong.
Common scenarios
Scenario 1: Debt marked as defaulted but you paid it
Provide proof of payment (bank statement). The CRA must update the file to show the debt as settled or remove the default.
Scenario 2: Account shows as open but you closed it
Contact the creditor for confirmation of closure. Provide this to the CRA with a request to update or remove the account.
Scenario 3: CCJ recorded against you but debt was settled
Apply to court for set-aside if you have paid. The court can remove the judgment from your file.
Scenario 4: Identity theft - accounts not yours
Report to the police and CRAs. Request removal of fraudulent accounts immediately. Add a notice of correction if not removed quickly.
Key deadlines
- CCJ removal: Automatic after 6 years from judgment date.
- Default removal: Can be disputed immediately but records fall after 6 years from default date.
- CRA response time: Must respond to dispute within 28 days (legally 30 days is standard).