Credit file correction request

Letter to a Credit Reference Agency (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) requesting correction of inaccurate data under UK GDPR Article 16 (right to rectification) and section 159 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

Draft template. This letter is being reviewed by a regulated solicitor before publication. You can use it now as a starting point, but read the surrounding guide carefully and consider getting free legal advice before sending.

The three main CRAs are Experian, Equifax, TransUnion. Errors should be sent to each one separately as they hold separate files. If the lender refuses to amend, request a Notice of Correction (200 words) added to the file as the alternative remedy under s.159 CCA 1974. Free statutory credit reports available from each CRA — check before complaining.

AI cross-check (2026-06-15) — pending regulated solicitor sign-off

This letter cites the following authority, which the AI has checked against current GOV.UK / legislation.gov.uk:

  • UK GDPR Article 16 (right to rectification): confirmed currently in force under the Data Protection Act 2018, Schedule 1 (which retains the UK GDPR as domestic law post-Brexit). The right to rectification of inaccurate personal data is unchanged.
  • Section 159 Consumer Credit Act 1974 (correction of credit file): confirmed currently in force. The 28-day response period and the right to a Notice of Correction (up to 200 words) are correctly stated under s.159(3) CCA 1974. The provision for the CRA to investigate with the original data controller is correctly described.
  • 28-day response period under s.159 CCA 1974: confirmed as the statutory period for the CRA to respond or correct.
  • Notice of Correction — 200 word limit: confirmed under the Consumer Credit (Credit Reference Agency) Regulations 2000 (SI 2000/290).

Reviewer focus areas: (1) The letter refers to both UK GDPR Article 16 and section 159 CCA 1974 as dual remedies — confirm these operate in parallel and there is no conflict or election of remedy issue. (2) Note that the ICO guidance on credit file corrections recommends complaining to the lender (original data controller) first, not just the CRA — reviewer should consider whether this is adequately signposted. (3) The FOS jurisdiction over CRA disputes should be verified — CRAs are regulated by the FCA, so FOS can review CRA conduct, but the FOS route is mentioned only as an alternative escalation.

This AI cross-check is an aid only; final sign-off requires a regulated solicitor.

Your details

Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion

For example: "Default registered by XYZ Bank on 12 March 2023" or "CCJ shown but already satisfied"

For example: "Settlement letter dated 1 April 2024 attached"

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Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. You should seek qualified legal help if your situation requires it.