Money Advice Direct
FREEPHONE 0800 074 6918
We receive a lot of calls and emails from the public asking; "Will an IVA be reflected on my credit file?".
Please note that if you do an IVA your credit file will be affected. An IVA is registered on the individual insolvency register. The credit reference agencies use the individual insolvency register to keep their records up to date so if a person does an IVA it will be reflected on the persons credit file.
The credit file will have the IVA recorded on it for a period of six years from the start of the IVA at which point it can be removed on request. If the removal is not requested there is no gaurentee that it will be removed automatically.
Once your IVA ends, the Insolvency Service will let the credit reference agencies know. The agencies will then update the IVA entry on your credit report to show it has been ‘completed’. The entry then stays on your credit report for six years from the date the IVA began. You might continue to experience difficulties getting credit and other financial services because you were in an IVA in the past. If you do manage to find someone who will lend to you, it is likely that they will see you as a high risk customer and they may charge you a higher interest rate as a result.
Landlords and employers can look at the ‘public’ information on your credit report, such as court judgments, bankruptcy orders and IVAs. As a result, entering into an IVA may affect your chances of renting a home or getting the job you want.
If you would like to know if an IVA will be reflected on your credit file complete the following form or telephone freephone 0800 074 6918.