Fact-check notice
- This article is based on official UK government guidance and recognised debt advice organisations.
- CCJ set aside outcomes depend on court discretion and individual circumstances.
- For personalised advice, contact the court or a qualified adviser.
CCJ Set Aside UK (2026): How to Remove a County Court Judgment Fast + Evidence Checklist & Template Letter
A County Court Judgment (CCJ) can remain on your UK credit file for up to six years and seriously affect
your ability to obtain credit, rent property, or apply for a mortgage.
In some circumstances, you can apply to have the CCJ set aside,
meaning it is removed and treated as if it never existed.
What Does “Set Aside a CCJ” Mean?
Setting aside a CCJ means the court cancels the judgment because it should not have been made.
If granted, the CCJ is removed from the public register and credit reference agencies are updated.
- The CCJ no longer appears on your credit report
- You regain the opportunity to respond to the original claim
- Lenders will not see the judgment
When Can You Apply to Set Aside a CCJ?
You may be able to apply if one or more of the following apply:
- You did not receive the original claim form
- The claim was sent to an old or incorrect address
- The judgment was entered in error
- You paid the debt before the CCJ was issued
- You have a genuine defence that was never heard
Courts expect you to act promptly after discovering the CCJ.
Delays can reduce the likelihood of success.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a CCJ Set Aside
1) Download Form N244
You must apply using the official N244 Application Notice from GOV.UK.
2) Complete the Application
- Name of the County Court
- Claim number
- Your details as the defendant
- Clear reasons why the CCJ should be set aside
3) Explain Your Legal Grounds
- You were not properly served with the claim
- The court made an administrative error
- You have a valid defence to the claim
4) Attach Supporting Evidence
- Proof of address change
- Correspondence with the claimant
- Bank statements showing payment
- Medical or travel evidence (if relevant)
5) Pay the Court Fee
A court fee is payable unless the claimant consents or you qualify for help with fees.
6) Attend the Hearing
A short hearing may be scheduled where a judge considers your application.
Evidence Checklist (Before You Apply)
- Address history proving non-receipt of documents
- Emails or letters disputing the debt
- Proof of payment
- Witness statements if applicable
Template Supporting Statement (N244)
[Your full name]
[Your address]
[Postcode]
[Date]
To: [County Court name]
Claim number: [XXXXXXX]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I respectfully apply for the County Court Judgment dated [date] to be set aside.
I did not receive the original claim form because [brief explanation].
I acted promptly once I became aware of the judgment.
I believe the judgment should be set aside because:
• I was not properly served with the claim, and/or
• I have a genuine defence to the claim.
Please find attached the supporting evidence.
Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
What Happens After a CCJ Is Set Aside?
- The CCJ is removed from the Register of Judgments
- Credit reference agencies update your credit file
- You can defend the claim or negotiate repayment
Important Warnings
Setting aside a CCJ is not guaranteed.
Evidence quality and how quickly you apply are key factors.
If you do nothing, the CCJ usually remains on your credit file for six years.
Official & Trusted Sources
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