What is a Credit File?

Most consumers who have entered into a loan in the past will have a credit file. Your credit file contains information which can be used by credit providers to assist them in assessing applications for credit. This information can include:

Personal details;
Credit accounts held;
Arrears (unpaid debts) brought up to date;
Defaults/credit infringements;
Credit applications;
Repayment history.

A credit file can also be used by debt collectors to locate a missing debtor.

Credit files may contain negative information such as default listings and public record information which may affect your ability to get credit.

NOTE: If you apply for a credit file or a product that requires a credit check, your current contact information will be updated. This means that previous lenders may be informed of these changes and could start reaching out to you again.

How to get a copy of your credit file?

You are entitled to a free copy of your credit file every three months. You can also get a free copy if you have been denied credit or if you have asked for credit information to be corrected.

You may contact any of the below credit reporting agencies for a free copy of your credit file.

How to update your credit file?

For information about placing a listing on a credit file, and how to update those listings, review our How to update listings on credit information file fact sheet.

You do not need to pay someone to correct information on your credit file. You can do this for free or with the assistance of a free financial counsellor.

Missed a payment?

If you have missed a payment and are worried that this may be listed on your credit file, please see our Default Notices Fact Sheet

More information:

For general information about credit reports and how to obtain one, review our Fact Sheet on Credit Reports

Information on our website is provided for information only and is not legal advice. If you would like legal advice, please message us using the form below for a confidential discussion, or scroll down to see other ways to reach us.