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error in credit history

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For a number of years I have been getting refused when applying for credit cards so I finally decided to investigate why and did a credit check. I have discovered that American Express are reporting that I have defaulted on a credit card that I had with them in error. I closed the account in 2008 whilst in credit having never defaulted or been in arrears. However the record shows I have defaulted on the card from 2008 - 2013 whilst still being in credit which is clearly wrong. I understand that they must correct this as it is a breach of the data protection act to provide information on someone that is erroneous but is there any other compensation I can seek for the damage this has done to me and my credit rating?

Comments

  • daphnemoon
    daphnemoon Posts: 79 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10 Posts Combo Breaker
    Strange! Call Amex up as soon as you can, defaults stay on your record for 6 years from the date of default.

    It seems strange that you have been turned down for credit cards with only one old default in your credit file. Was this card your only credit, if so your credit rating could be low. When you have other forms of credit in place (or at least searches), such as British Gas, media providers and Insurances it's actually improves your rating if they are kept paid and up to date. Even an overdraft from your bank should show on your credit file along with how well it is managed.

    Check your current credit score and other searches and current agreements and call Amex.

    In future it may be a good idea to keep a closer eye on your credit file so that things like this don't happen to you.
    I wish I knew more than I do!! :)
  • Coburn
    Coburn Posts: 2 Newbie
    The record shows I have been defaulting on the card for the last five years so its not an old default even though the account was closed 5 years previously. I have contacted Amex and am waiting for them to resolve it.

    I will be certainly be checking my credit history regularly now, but can I get any form of compensation from Amex?
  • fermi
    fermi Posts: 40,542 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Combo Breaker Rampant Recycler
    Once an account is defaulted, the monthly status history stays at a D or an 8 from that point onwards. Those are NOT new defaults, but just status updates on the original old one.

    As said, dispute with Amex. Also get the credit reference agency to register it as disputed from their end.

    If you can't resolve it then take the matter to the FOS and ICO after the appropriate time.
    Free/impartial debt advice: National Debtline | StepChange Debt Charity | Find your local CAB

    IVA & fee charging DMP companies: Profits from misery, motivated ONLY by greed
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