How to fix incorrect account status on Experian
Closed an account but it’s still showing as open on your Experian report? Paid off a default but it’s not marked as satisfied? These status errors mislead lenders about where you stand.
The quickest fix is usually to contact the lender directly — they control the data reported to Experian.
Key takeaways
- Free to dispute — your legal right under CCA s.159 and UK GDPR.
- Experian must respond within 28 days.
- Lender has 28 days to respond to Experian’s enquiry.
- Check your Experian report free via Free Experian account.
How to dispute with Experian
Log in to your Experian account and submit a dispute identifying the account and the incorrect status. Attach your evidence (closure letter, settlement agreement, payment receipt).
Experian contacts the lender to verify. If the lender confirms the correct status, Experian updates your report.
Experian-specific tips
After settling a debt, always get written confirmation from the lender. This is your key evidence if the status isn’t updated on Experian.
Evidence you’ll need
- Gather your account closure confirmation letter, final statement showing zero balance, settlement agreement and proof of payment, or receipt confirming a default has been paid. Written confirmation from the lender is key — always get it when settling a debt.
- Upload through your free Experian account in PDF, JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP, or TIFF (max 5 MB per file). You can also email [email protected] or post to Consumer Help Service, PO Box 9000, Nottingham, NG80 7WP.
Timeline
Status corrections on Experian usually resolve within 2–4 weeks. The lender has 28 days to respond to Experian’s enquiry. Experian acknowledges disputes within 1–2 working days and adds a “disputed” flag to the entry.
After the lender corrects the status, allow one monthly reporting cycle (up to 6 weeks) for the update to appear on your Experian report.
If your dispute is rejected
If the lender refuses to update the status, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service with your documentary evidence. You can also add a Notice of Correction to explain the situation.
Experian’s complaints freephone is 0800 013 8888, or email [email protected]. Postal complaints: Customer Relations Team, PO Box 8000, Nottingham, NG80 7WF.
FAQs
Does a satisfied default get removed from Experian?
No. A satisfied default stays for 6 years from the original default date. “Satisfied” means it’s been paid, which looks better than unsatisfied, but it’s still visible.
Dispute this on another CRA
Other disputes on Experian
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