TL;DR
Credit repair companies cannot remove accurate negative information from your credit file. Only time removes accurate defaults, CCJs and missed payments
Last reviewed: June 2026 | Sources: Debt & Credit
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Debt & Credit Key Facts: Credit Repair Accurate entries: cannot be legally removedRetention period: 6 years from date of entryFree alternatives: ICO, FOS, CRA dispute processRegulator: FCAComplaints: Financial Ombudsman Service |
What credit repair companies claim to do
Credit repair companies charge fees to improve credit scores by disputing entries on credit files. They typically claim to remove defaults, county court judgements and missed payment records. Some make claims about improving scores within specific timeframes.
What they cannot legally do
Accurate negative information cannot be removed. The Credit Reference Agency Information Notice framework and UK data protection law do not permit removal of accurate information during its retention period. A genuine default, missed payment or CCJ that is accurately recorded remains for six years from the date of the event regardless of any dispute raised.
The services they offer are available free. Disputing inaccurate information on a credit file is a free process available directly through the credit reference agencies (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). Where a dispute is not resolved, the Information Commissioner's Office and Financial Ombudsman Service provide free escalation routes.
Some operate illegally. A minority of credit repair firms advise clients to apply for new credit using a different identity or address to create a clean file. This is identity fraud and is a criminal offence.
What actually improves a credit score over time
Accurate negative entries reduce in impact as they age and are removed after six years. Registering on the electoral roll, maintaining low credit utilisation, avoiding multiple credit applications in short periods and making all payments on time are the most effective legitimate improvements to credit profiles.
What to do if you have inaccurate entries
Raise a dispute directly with the relevant credit reference agency providing evidence that the entry is inaccurate. If unresolved, escalate to the Information Commissioner's Office or Financial Ombudsman Service. This process is free and has the same legal force as any commercial credit repair service.
Where to complain
FCA-regulated credit repair firms are subject to Financial Ombudsman Service jurisdiction. Unregulated firms operating without FCA authorisation can be reported to the FCA.
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Disclaimer This article is for information only and does not constitute regulated financial advice. Always verify current terms with relevant providers and seek regulated advice for your specific circumstances. Kael Tripton Ltd is an independent editorial publisher and is not regulated by the FCA. |
Frequently asked questions
How long do negative entries stay on my credit file?
Most negative entries including defaults, missed payments, CCJs and IVAs remain for six years from the date of the event. Bankruptcy remains for six years from the adjudication date. After six years, entries are automatically removed.
Can I dispute an accurate default?
You can raise a dispute with the credit reference agency but accurate information will not be removed. You can add a Notice of Correction of up to 200 words to your credit file explaining the circumstances of a default, which lenders can see when assessing your application.
How do I access my credit file?
All three UK credit reference agencies (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) must provide free access to your statutory credit report. Experian also offers a free CreditExpert service. Check all three as information held can differ between agencies.
What is a Notice of Correction?
A Notice of Correction is a statement of up to 200 words that you can add to your credit file to explain a negative entry. It is visible to lenders when they check your credit file. It does not remove the negative entry but provides context.
Is it worth paying a credit repair company?
No. Credit repair companies cannot legally do anything that you cannot do yourself for free directly with the credit reference agencies, ICO or Financial Ombudsman Service. Paying for these services provides no additional legal power to remove accurate information.
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Sources ICO: Your Credit File Rights |
