How to Remove Missed Payments from Your Credit Report

Missed a payment and worried it’s ruined your credit? You’re not alone. Life happens – whether it’s an unexpected bill, a direct debit gone wrong, or just a simple mistake. But the good news is, there are ways to deal with it. If you’re wondering how to remove missed payments from your credit report, here’s what you need to know.

First Things First: Check Your Credit Report

Before doing anything, it’s a good idea to check your credit file. You can do this for free using sites like:

• Checkmyfile – Shows data from all four major UK credit reference agencies (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion and Crediva) in one place.
• Experian
• Equifax
• TransUnion (via Credit Karma)

Look out for any missed payments showing on your report. Make sure they’re accurate – sometimes lenders report errors. If it doesn’t look right, you might be able to get it removed.

What Counts as a Missed Payment?

A payment is usually marked as ‘missed’ if it’s over 30 days late. This can apply to credit cards, loans, mortgages, and even mobile phone bills. Even one missed payment can stay on your credit file for six years – which is why sorting it out is so important.

How to Remove Missed Payments from Your Credit Report

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle it.

1. Was It a Mistake? Dispute It

If you believe a missed payment is showing on your file in error, you can raise a dispute with the credit reference agency (CRA). They’ll contact the lender on your behalf. You can also go directly to the lender.

In your dispute, include:

• Account details
• The date of the incorrect entry
• Why you believe it’s wrong
• Any evidence (bank statements, emails, etc.)

If the lender agrees it was a mistake, they’ll correct the entry – and it’ll be removed from your credit report.

2. Ask for a Goodwill Adjustment

Let’s say the missed payment was your fault, but it was a one-off and you’ve had a good track record otherwise. In this case, you can write to the lender and ask for a goodwill adjustment.

Be polite, honest, and explain what happened. For example:

“I’ve always made my payments on time, but I missed one in March due to a change in bank accounts. I’ve since set up a direct debit and haven’t missed any payments since. I’d be grateful if you could consider removing this from my record as a goodwill gesture.”

There’s no guarantee they’ll say yes, but if you don’t ask, you don’t get.

3. Add a Notice of Correction

If the lender won’t remove the missed payment, you can add a Notice of Correction to your credit file. It’s a short statement (up to 200 words) that explains the situation in your own words.

Lenders will see this note when they check your file. It won’t remove the missed payment, but it gives you a chance to tell your side of the story – which could help if you’re applying for credit.

4. Wait It Out – But Keep Things Clean

If you can’t get the entry removed, don’t panic. A missed payment becomes less important over time, especially if the rest of your credit behaviour improves. After six years, it’ll drop off your report entirely.

In the meantime:

• Make all future payments on time
• Keep credit card balances low
• Avoid applying for lots of credit at once

Can You Pay to Remove a Missed Payment?

Some companies claim they can ‘fix’ your credit file – for a fee. Be cautious. No one can legally remove accurate information from your credit report. If it’s true and correct, it has to stay.

Instead, focus on the steps above and work on improving your credit naturally.

The Bottom Line

If you’re wondering how to remove missed payments from your credit report, the key is knowing your rights, taking action quickly, and keeping your records in good order. While not every missed payment can be deleted, you can often lessen the impact or fix mistakes with a bit of effort.

Keeping your credit report healthy is all about consistency – and a few simple habits can make a big difference in the long run.

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