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Credit defaults

A credit default can stay on your file for up to five years and make it hard to get a loan or a new service. Your provider should follow the rules when they list a credit default and quickly fix any mistakes.

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TIPS

How you can work with your provider on a credit default

  1. Get a free copy of your credit file from Equifax or Experian

  2. Check your credit file for the date your provider listed the default, the amount and why they applied it

  3. Check with your provider your address is up to date

  4. If you think your provider listed the credit default incorrectly, check the payments you made towards the account

EXPECTATIONS

How we expect your provider to act

If you dispute a default your provider listed, they should:

  • Follow the rules

    Your provider should only list a credit default for a debt of $150 or more that’s at least 60 days overdue.

  • Show it followed the rules

    Your provider should show you they followed the rules when they listed a credit default on your credit file.

  • Fix mistakes within 30 days

    If your credit information is wrong, your provider should correct it within 30 days.

  • Update after you pay

    Once you pay or settle the debt, your provider should update your credit file within three days.

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OUR CONSIDERATIONS

We look at if the listing is correct, and if your provider followed the credit-reporting rules.

  • If the credit default listing and debts are correct

  • If your provider followed the rules for a credit default listing

  • If your provider updated your credit file after you paid or the debt was settled

POSSIBLE OUTCOMES

Depending on your situation, we may ask your telco to...

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