How long will a default stay on my credit file?
Listings do not last forever. Here is roughly how long, and what changes when you pay.
This guide helps you
- Understand that listings have set time limits
- Learn the general timeframes for defaults and other entries
- See how paying a debt changes a listing rather than removing it
- Know what to do when a listing should have dropped off but has not
- Find free help if the dates look wrong
5 min
What's happening
Negative entries on your credit report are not permanent. Each type has a maximum period it can stay listed, after which it should be removed automatically. The exact periods are set by law and can change, so always confirm the current rules rather than relying on a fixed number.
General timeframes
As a guide only, and subject to the current rules:
- A payment default generally stays listed for around five years from the date it was listed.
- A serious credit infringement can stay for longer, generally around seven years.
- Repayment history information generally stays for around two years.
- Credit enquiries generally stay for around five years.
Treat these as approximate. Check the credit reporting rules in force at the time.
Step by step
- Note the date each listing was recorded.
- Work out the expected drop-off date based on the current rules.
- If a listing is still showing after it should have expired, contact the bureau and ask for it to be removed.
- If they do not act, lodge a free correction request and, if needed, escalate to AFCA at no cost.
Watch out for
Paying a default does not shorten how long it stays listed; it generally updates the entry to 'paid' for the remainder of the period. Anyone promising to make a valid listing disappear early for a fee is not offering something you cannot achieve for free, so be cautious.
Where to get free help
If a listing has overstayed its period, a financial counsellor on the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) can help you push for removal, for free. You can also use Merion Help for general guidance on the process.
Key takeaways
- Listings have maximum periods and should drop off automatically.
- Defaults generally stay around five years, but confirm current rules.
- Paying a default updates it rather than ending the listing early.
- If a listing overstays its period, you can have it removed for free.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a default stay on my file?
Generally around five years from the date it was listed, though this is set by law and can change. Check the current rules for the precise period.
Will paying it remove it sooner?
Usually not. The listing generally remains for its set period but is marked as paid, which can still help your standing with lenders.
It expired but is still showing. What do I do?
Contact the bureau to have it removed. If they do not act, lodge a free correction request and escalate to AFCA at no cost.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Your situation is unique and rules can vary by state and over time — for advice on your circumstances, speak to a free financial counsellor (National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007) or get legal help.
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