A default can stop you getting credit

Last reviewed April 2026

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A default is registered on your credit file when you miss six consecutive payments on a credit agreement. It stays on your file for six years and makes it significantly harder to be approved for credit. You can still take steps to improve your profile while waiting for it to clear.

A default occurs when you have missed too many payments or broken the terms of a credit agreement and the lender closes your account. It is recorded on your credit file and will impact your credit score, which could potentially result in an automatic decline from other lenders.

Missing one payment is considered early delinquency and will not immediately trigger a default. A lender will only issue a default after six consecutive missed payments.

What is a default notice?

A default is not issued the moment you miss your sixth payment. Lenders typically send a notice of default letter after three to six months of missed or underpayments, giving you two weeks to resolve the issue before the account formally defaults.

In some cases, if a lender believes the relationship has broken down entirely. For example, if you are not responding to letters or calls, they may register a default sooner.

How long does a default stay on your credit file?

6

Six years on your credit file

A default remains for six years from the date it was registered, even if you repay the debt in full before then. After six years it is automatically removed.

During those six years, lenders can see you have struggled to meet a previous credit agreement. This can make it harder to get:

Future loans
Credit cards
Mortgages
Certain bank accounts

However, a default does not mean progress stops. There are positive steps you can take in the meantime.

How to improve your credit file with a default

Pay off what you owe as soon as possible

Once repaid, the default will be marked as 'satisfied' on your report. It still shows, but it looks better to lenders than an outstanding default.

Register on the electoral roll

One of the quickest wins for your credit profile. It confirms your identity and address to lenders. Find out more.

Check your credit file for errors

Review your file at Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Mistakes can drag your score down further and can be disputed.

Keep up with all other payments

Consistent repayment on any remaining accounts shows lenders you are managing credit responsibly now.

Give it time

As the default ages, its impact lessens. After two to three years, many lenders weigh it less heavily, especially if the rest of your file is clean.

Can a default be removed from your credit file?

Yes, in two circumstances.

The first is time. After six years from the date it was registered, the default is automatically deleted from your file in line with Statute Barred Debt rules.

The second is error. If the default was registered incorrectly — for example the lender failed to contact you, there was mistaken identity, or an administration error occurred — you can contest it by contacting the lender directly. Once removed, the lender cannot re-register it

Struggling with debt?

Contact your lender as soon as possible and be honest about your situation. They may be able to agree a repayment plan. Free, confidential advice is also available from:

StepChange · National Debtline · Citizens Advice