How to dispute a default on Equifax
A default on your Equifax report is one of the worst things a lender can see. But if the lender didn’t follow the rules when registering it, the default could be invalid — and removable.
Here’s exactly how to challenge a default on Equifax, what evidence you need, and the legal requirements lenders must follow.
Key takeaways
- Free to dispute — your legal right under CCA s.159 and UK GDPR.
- Equifax must respond within 28 days.
- Lender has 21 days to respond to Equifax’s enquiry.
- Check your Equifax report free via ClearScore.
How to dispute with Equifax
Go to help.equifax.co.uk/EquifaxOnlineHelp. Select “Errors on my Credit Report”, then “Financial Account information”. Choose the appropriate dispute reason for the default.
Upload your evidence — the Default Notice (or evidence it was never sent), proof of address, payment records. Equifax contacts the lender, who has 21 days to respond.
You can also dispute via ClearScore, which feeds through to Equifax. For complex default disputes with substantial evidence, the direct Equifax portal is more effective.
Equifax-specific tips
Equifax categorises default disputes under “Financial Account information”. If the default relates to public record data (e.g., linked to a CCJ), you may need to select “Public Information” instead. The Equifax Zendesk portal at disputeuk.zendesk.com is an alternative route.
Evidence you’ll need
- Your most important document is the Default Notice itself — request a copy from the lender under CCA s.78 (£1 fee). If the lender can’t produce it, your dispute is significantly stronger. Also collect proof of your correct address at the time (utility bills, council tax), account statements showing payment history, correspondence with the lender, and proof of any payment arrangement.
- Upload evidence through the Online Help portal at help.equifax.co.uk/EquifaxOnlineHelp. Standard document formats (PDF, JPEG, PNG) are accepted. For postal submissions to PO Box 10036, Leicester, LE3 4FS, send legible copies only — never originals.
Timeline
Equifax must respond within 28 days under the Consumer Credit Act. The lender has 21 days to respond — shorter than the 28 days given by Experian and TransUnion. Equifax confirms receipt within 24 hours and adds a dispute flag to the entry.
Default disputes are often complex, but Equifax’s shorter lender response window can speed things up. If the lender fails to provide the Default Notice when challenged, the investigation may resolve in your favour more quickly.
If your dispute is rejected
If Equifax rejects your dispute, your next move is to complain directly to the lender about the Default Notice validity. The lender has 8 weeks to respond. If the lender maintains the default is valid, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service, which can order the default removed and award compensation.
Equifax has an alternative dispute form at disputeuk.zendesk.com for re-submissions. For formal complaints, email [email protected] or call 0800 014 2955.
Sample dispute letter
For a template letter you can use to dispute a default with Equifax, see our dispute letter templates page.
FAQs
Can Equifax remove a default without the lender’s permission?
No. CRAs cannot change lender-supplied data without the lender’s agreement. If the lender maintains the default is correct, you need to escalate to the lender directly or the Financial Ombudsman.
How do I get a copy of my Default Notice?
Write to the lender requesting a copy under Section 78 of the Consumer Credit Act (for credit agreements). This costs £1. If they can’t produce it, the default may be challengeable.
Does paying the default remove it from Equifax?
No. Paying a default marks it as “satisfied” on your Equifax report, but it stays for 6 years from the original default date.
Dispute this on another CRA
Other disputes on Equifax
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