When two people enter into a joint financial commitment in the UK, a record called a "financial association" (or "link") is created on their credit files.
This association allows lenders to view both parties' credit histories whenever either person applies for credit. If your ex-partner has bad credit, it can drag down your ability to get a loan. This guide explains how to break that link.
Quick Answer (Read This First)
- What creates it?: Joint accounts (Mortgages, Loans, Current Accounts). Marriage alone does not create it.
- How to remove it: You must first close all joint accounts (or remove one name). Then, you must ask all three CRAs to "Disassociate" you.
- Timeline: CRAs have 28 days to process the request.
- The Trap: If you leave even one joint account open (e.g., an old dormant bank account), the disassociation will be rejected.
IMPORTANT
Check All Three: You must file a separate disassociation request with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. They do not talk to each other.
How the System Works
The "Link"
When you apply for a loan, the bank checks your file. If they see a "Financial Association" with John Smith, they will check John Smith's file too.
- Risk: If John Smith has defaults or CCJs, the bank may decline your application, even if your file is perfect.
The Disassociation Process
This is not automatic. Divorce does not break the link. You must manually apply for a Notice of Disassociation.
Key Rules, Thresholds, and Timelines
The "Zero Connection" Rule
You cannot disassociate if any financial link remains.
- Joint Mortgage: Usually blocks disassociation (unless you have been separated 6+ months, per some Experian policies).
- Joint Overdraft: Must be cleared and closed.
- Utility Bills: Occasionally create links if both names are on the credit agreement part.
Statutory Timeline
Under the Consumer Credit Act 1974 (Section 159), CRAs must respond within 28 days.
Common Points of Confusion
"We are divorced, so it's gone."
false. The legal ending of a marriage has zero impact on credit files. Only closing the joint accounts matters.
"It deletes the history."
False. Removing the association stops future searches from seeing the other person. It does not delete the history of the joint account itself (e.g., missed payments on a joint mortgage will still stay on your file for 6 years).
"I only need to tell Experian."
False. Lenders use different agencies. If you are linked on Equifax but disassociated on Experian, a lender checking Equifax will still see your ex-partner's bad debts.
Important Exceptions
- Guarantors: Being a guarantor can create a financial link if the lender reports it. This can be harder to remove until the loan is paid off. Read more in our guarantor guide.
- The "6-Month" Rule: Experian may allow disassociation on a joint mortgage if you can prove you have lived apart for 6+ months and have no other shared finances. This is an exception, not the rule.
What This Means in Practice
Step-by-Step Guide
- Audit: Check your Statutory Credit Report to find all "Financial Associations".
- Close Accounts: Close every joint bank account, loan, or credit card. Or, transfer them to one name.
- Wait: Wait ~4-6 weeks for the accounts to show as "Closed".
- Apply: Go to the dispute pages of Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Select "Financial Association" and ask to be removed.
- Verify: Check your reports again in 28 days to ensure the name is gone.
FAQ
Does it cost money?
No. It is a statutory right.
Can I do it if we still have a mortgage?
Generally no. You act as "Joint & Several" guarantors for the mortgage, so the financial link is valid. (See exceptions above).
What if my ex refuses to close the account?
Verify with the bank if you can remove your name unilaterally. If the account is in credit, this is often easy. If it is in debt, the bank may refuse.
Need to check if you are linked? Get your Statutory Credit Report today.
