How to Remove an IVA From Your Credit Reports

An Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) can be a lifeline if you’re struggling with debt, but once it’s over, most people want it off their credit file as soon as possible. If you’re looking into how to remove an IVA from your credit reports in the UK, here’s a straightforward guide written in plain English.

What Is an IVA?

An IVA is a formal debt solution that helps you repay a portion of what you owe over time, typically five to six years. It’s legally binding and protects you from further action by your creditors. At the end of the arrangement, any remaining debts included in the IVA are written off.

While helpful in the short term, an IVA affects your creditworthiness. It appears on your credit file for six years from the start date, which can make borrowing more difficult during that time.

When Is an IVA Removed From Your Credit Report?

The IVA will automatically be removed from your credit report six years after the start date – even if you’ve not yet finished paying it off, or if you settled it early. That’s a hard rule followed by all major credit reference agencies in the UK.

So, if your IVA started in March 2019, it should drop off by March 2025. But if it’s still there after that point, you may need to take steps to get it removed.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove an IVA From Your Credit Reports

1. Check All Your Credit Reports – Not Just One

Most people only check one credit report – usually Experian – but lenders may use any of the big three agencies:

• Experian
• Equifax
• TransUnion

To see the full picture, it’s best to use Checkmyfile, a service that shows data from all four credit reference agencies in one easy-to-read report. This is especially helpful for spotting any inconsistencies between reports.

2. Confirm the IVA Is No Longer Listed on the Insolvency Register

Visit the Individual Insolvency Register to check if your name has been removed. Your IVA should disappear from the register within three months of completion. If it’s still there, contact the Insolvency Service or your IVA provider to sort it.

3. Gather Your Paperwork

Before contacting any credit agencies, make sure you have the following:

• Your IVA completion certificate
• The start and end dates of your IVA
• Your address history

This will speed things up when raising a dispute or correction.

4. Dispute the Entry With the Credit Reference Agencies

If your IVA has passed the six-year mark but is still showing, you can raise a dispute online. Provide copies of your completion certificate if needed. Each agency will investigate and usually respond within 28 days.

You can raise disputes through:

Directly via the Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion websites

Checkmyfile (if you’re already using it)

5. Ask Your IVA Provider for Help

If the credit agencies ask for further proof, your IVA provider should be able to send confirmation directly. Some will even handle it on your behalf if you get in touch.

6. Add a Notice of Correction (Optional)

If you’re still having trouble, you can ask the agency to add a short note to your credit report – a “Notice of Correction”. It’s a simple explanation you write yourself, and lenders will see it when viewing your file.

Will My Credit Score Improve After the IVA Is Removed?

Yes, your score will usually start to recover once the IVA drops off. However, recovery takes time. The best way to improve your credit health after an IVA is to:

• Make payments on time
• Avoid new missed payments
• Use a credit builder card responsibly
• Keep your credit utilisation low

Checkmyfile is a good tool for tracking your progress over time, as it updates regularly and pulls in data from all the major agencies.

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