What a CCJ is
A County Court Judgment is a court order in England, Wales and Northern Ireland requiring you to repay a debt. Scotland uses a similar decree system.
Pay within a month
If you pay the full amount within one month of the judgment, you can ask for it to be removed from the register entirely.
After a month
The CCJ stays on your file for six years. Once paid, it is marked as satisfied, which lenders view more favourably.
Setting aside
If you did not receive the claim or do not owe the money, you can apply to the court to set the judgment aside.
Common questions
Can I get a mortgage or loan with a CCJ?
Yes with some specialist lenders, especially once satisfied and older.
Does a CCJ affect my partner?
Not directly, unless you have joint finances that link your credit files.
This guide is general information, not personal financial advice. If you are worried about debt, free help is available from MoneyHelper, StepChange and Citizens Advice.