How to remove old debt from Experian
Still seeing an old debt on your Experian report that should have disappeared years ago? You’re right to question it. Most negative data should be automatically removed after six years. If it hasn’t been, it’s most likely a system error.
Here’s how to check the dates, dispute it with Experian, and what to do if they don’t remove it.
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 free Experian account and check the date on the disputed entry. If more than 6 years have passed from the default date, submit a dispute through the contact form explaining the entry has exceeded the retention period.
Alternatively, email [email protected] or post to PO Box 9000, Nottingham, NG80 7WP.
Experian should remove expired data quickly as this is a straightforward data retention issue.
Experian-specific tips
Experian’s CRAIN (Credit Reference Agency Information Notice) documents their retention periods. You can reference this in your dispute for additional weight.
Evidence you’ll need
- Your Experian credit report showing the entry and its date is the primary evidence. The default or registration date is the key — the 6-year clock starts from this date, not the date of last payment. No additional evidence is usually needed, as the dates speak for themselves.
- If you’re submitting via your free Experian account, a screenshot of the entry showing the date is helpful. Experian’s CRAIN (Credit Reference Agency Information Notice) documents their retention periods — referencing this in your dispute adds weight. Evidence can be uploaded in PDF, JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP, or TIFF (max 5 MB per file).
Timeline
Old debt removals on Experian are usually resolved quickly — often within 1–2 weeks. Experian can verify the dates in their own system without needing to contact the lender, though the lender has 28 days to respond if contacted. Experian acknowledges disputes within 1–2 working days.
Because this is a straightforward data retention issue, Experian should act promptly. Their CRAIN documentation confirms the 6-year retention period for most negative data.
If your dispute is rejected
If Experian doesn’t remove expired data, escalate to the ICO. Retaining data beyond the agreed retention period is a breach of UK GDPR Article 5(1)(e) (the storage limitation principle). Experian’s own CRAIN documentation confirms the 6-year limit.
Experian’s complaints freephone is 0800 013 8888, or email [email protected]. Postal complaints: Customer Relations Team, PO Box 8000, Nottingham, NG80 7WF.
FAQs
When does the 6-year clock start on Experian?
From the date of default (for defaults), date of judgement (for CCJs), or date of registration (for bankruptcies/IVAs). Not the date of last payment.
Why hasn’t Experian removed it automatically?
CRAs should remove expired data automatically, but system errors do occur. A simple dispute should resolve it quickly.
Dispute this on another CRA
Other disputes on Experian
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