Different records mean different things
A missed payment is a payment not made as agreed. A default is a lender’s record that an agreement has broken down. A county court judgment (CCJ) is a court order relating to a debt in England and Wales; Scotland and Northern Ireland have different procedures.
Paying a debt does not automatically erase an accurate record. Check both the status and the date recorded on your report.
How long records remain
A default normally remains on a credit file for six years from the default date, even if it is later paid. A settled account can retain its previous payment history for six years after closure.
A CCJ is normally on the register for six years. If you pay it in full within one month, you can apply to have the entry removed. If you pay later, you can get it marked as satisfied, but the entry generally remains. A court may also set aside a judgment in specific circumstances.
If you are struggling to pay
- Contact the lender early and explain the situation.
- Prioritise essential bills and seek free, independent debt advice.
- Check inaccurate dates, amounts or account ownership with the lender and agency.
- Avoid anyone promising to remove accurate negative records for a fee.