What a CCJ means
A CCJ is a court order to repay a debt. It's recorded on your credit file for six years and makes borrowing harder and pricier. But how you respond — quickly and correctly — can limit the impact. The best approach depends on whether the CCJ is valid and how fast you can pay.
1. Pay within 30 days (get it removed)
If you pay the full amount within 30 days of the judgment, the CCJ is removed from the register entirely. Best if you can pay quickly — it's the only way to have it wiped rather than just marked satisfied.
2. Pay after 30 days (mark as satisfied)
Paying later means the CCJ stays for six years but is marked 'satisfied', which lenders view more favourably than an unpaid one. Best if you can't pay within 30 days — still worth doing promptly.
3. Apply to set aside an incorrect CCJ
If the CCJ was issued wrongly (e.g. you never received the claim, or the debt isn't yours), you can apply to 'set it aside'. Best where the judgment is genuinely incorrect — act quickly and get advice.
4. Set up a payment plan
If you can't pay in full, you can arrange instalments through the court. Best for affordability — though the CCJ remains recorded while you pay.
5. Get free debt advice
If the CCJ is part of wider debt problems, free advice helps you deal with everything. Best first step if you're struggling — contact Citizens Advice or StepChange.
How a CCJ affects borrowing
- It stays on your file for six years (unless paid within 30 days)
- A satisfied CCJ is viewed better than an unpaid one
- Specialist lenders still offer mortgages and loans with a CCJ
- The older and satisfied it is, the less impact it has
Borrowing with a CCJ
Even with a CCJ, specialist lenders can help — see our bad credit mortgages and bad credit loans guides. A broker can match you to a lender that accepts CCJs. Find a specialist through Nesto — free, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a CCJ removed?
Yes — if you pay the full amount within 30 days of judgment, it's removed from the register. After that it stays for six years but can be marked satisfied.
What's the 30-day rule?
Pay the CCJ in full within 30 days and it's wiped from the register entirely, rather than recorded for six years.
What if the CCJ is wrong?
You can apply to 'set it aside' if it was issued incorrectly — for example if you never received the claim. Act quickly and seek advice.
Can I get a mortgage with a CCJ?
Yes — specialist lenders accept CCJs, especially satisfied and older ones, usually with a larger deposit and higher rate.
How long does a CCJ stay on my file?
Six years from the judgment date, unless paid within 30 days. A satisfied CCJ is viewed more favourably than an unpaid one.