Getting a County Court Judgment (CCJ) can feel like a massive setback, but trust me, it doesn’t have to be the end of the road. If you’ve had one, you’re probably worried about what it means for your finances—things like getting a mortgage, borrowing money, or even just setting up a phone contract. But here’s the good news: you can absolutely rebuild your credit. At Mortgage Bridge, we help people in your position every day, so let’s break it down into simple, manageable steps.
What Is a CCJ and How Does It Affect Your Credit?
A CCJ is basically a court order saying you owe someone money and need to pay it back. It usually happens when you’ve missed payments, and the creditor takes legal action against you. Once issued, it sticks to your credit file for six years, making borrowing trickier—but not impossible.
How Much Damage Does a CCJ Do to Your Credit Score?
Let’s be honest—a CCJ isn’t great news for your credit score. Here’s how it can impact you:
- Will your credit score drop? Yes, a CCJ can seriously dent your score.
- Will lenders refuse to lend to you? Some might, but there are specialist lenders who will still consider you.
- Will borrowing be more expensive? Possibly—you may face higher interest rates.
- Can you still get a mortgage? Yes! It’s harder, but with the right lender, it’s doable.
How Can You Pay Off Your CCJ Quickly?
Sorting out your CCJ as soon as possible can help massively. Here’s what you can do:
- Can you pay it off within 30 days? If you do, it won’t even appear on your credit file—best-case scenario!
- What if you can’t pay in full? Speak to the creditor and agree on a payment plan.
- Will paying it off improve your credit? Absolutely. Once settled, it shows lenders you’re taking responsibility.
How Can You Check Your Credit Report for Errors?
After dealing with your CCJ, checking your credit report is a must. You can get it from places like Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion. Look out for:
- Any incorrect CCJ details? Mistakes happen—get them fixed!
- Is your CCJ marked as ‘satisfied’? If you’ve paid it off, make sure your report reflects that.
- Other outstanding debts? Sorting these out can help boost your score.
What Are the Best Ways to Start Rebuilding Your Credit?
Once your CCJ is sorted, it’s time to start fresh and rebuild that credit score.
Should You Register on the Electoral Roll?
Yes! Lenders use it to confirm your identity, and it’s a simple way to give your score a boost.
Why Is It Important to Make Payments on Time?
Your payment history is one of the biggest factors in your credit score. Set up direct debits so you never miss a bill—whether it’s rent, utilities, or a credit card.
Is a Credit-Builder Card a Good Idea?
It can be! A credit-builder credit card has a low limit, but if you use it responsibly (spend small, pay it off in full), it can improve your credit over time.
Should You Use a Budgeting App?
Definitely. Apps like Monzo or Starling help track your spending, making sure you stay on top of bills and avoid debt.
Can Applying for Too Much Credit Hurt Your Score?
Yes—each application leaves a mark on your file. Use eligibility checkers first and don’t apply for too much credit too quickly.
How Can You Build a Positive Credit History?
Is a Credit-Builder Loan Worth It?
Some banks offer these—they’re designed to help people rebuild their credit. You make fixed monthly payments, and at the end, you get the money back. It’s a great way to show responsible borrowing.
Should You Consider a Guarantor Loan?
If you’re struggling to get approved, having someone with good credit co-sign a loan can help. But be careful—if you miss payments, it affects them too.
Why Does Credit Utilisation Matter?
This is how much of your available credit you’re using. Keep it below 30% to show lenders you’re managing your credit well.
How Long Until a CCJ Is Removed From Your Credit Report?
A CCJ stays on your credit file for six years. Over time, it has less impact, especially if you’re building a positive credit history alongside it. Once it’s gone, your credit score should improve significantly.
Can You Still Get a Mortgage With a CCJ?
Yes! We help people in this situation all the time. While high-street lenders might say no, specialist lenders look at the bigger picture. If you’ve paid off your CCJ or have a solid track record since, you’ve got options.
Final Thoughts
Rebuilding your credit after a CCJ isn’t easy, but it’s 100% possible. With a bit of patience and the right strategy, you can get your credit back on track—and even secure a mortgage. If you’re looking for expert advice, Mortgage Bridge is here to help. We specialise in finding mortgage solutions for people with bad credit, so get in touch and let’s chat about your options!