How a CCJ Impacts Your Job Prospects – And What You Can Do About It

ccj affects job prospects

A County Court Judgment (CCJ) doesn’t just harm your credit score—it could cost you your next job.

Many employers these days will do a credit check against prospective employees to find out whether or not there are any CCJs against their name. If you’ve received a CCJ, they may decide not to employ you. This is particularly true if you are applying for work in the financial sector.

Many of these jobs require a ‘fit and proper’ test. The concern is that if someone is in debt, they may be more likely to do something dishonest.

Is there anything you can do to get around this?

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Removing the CCJ Will Improve Your Job Prospects

Unless it’s removed, the CCJ will remain on your credit record for six years from the date it’s issued.

However, if the CCJ is removed, your prospective employer won’t be able to find out about it, and it will no longer affect your job prospects.

How to Remove the CCJ

There are three ways to remove a CCJ from your credit file. Each option depends on your specific circumstances.

1. Pay the CCJ Within a Month

If you pay the full amount within one month of the judgment being issued, it will automatically be removed from your credit file. This is the quickest and most effective way to remove the CCJ.

2. Wait for Six Years

If you’re unable to pay the CCJ, it will remain on your credit file for six years. Once this period passes, the CCJ will be removed automatically. If you’re close to the six-year mark, this might be your best option.

3. Apply to Set Aside the CCJ

If you were unaware of the claim or didn’t have the opportunity to defend it, you can apply to have the CCJ set aside. This process involves submitting an application to the court, supported by a witness statement and, if needed, attending a court hearing.

  • Best for People who weren’t notified of the claim or believe they have a strong defence.
  • How to do it: You’ll need to complete Form N244 and provide evidence that supports your case.

What is the Process for Setting Aside a CCJ?

The court has a discretion to set aside certain types of CCJ’s, known as default judgments. These types of CCJ’s are entered when the defendant fails to file a defence when the claimant issues a claim. The court will set aside the default CCJ if it’s persuaded that there’s a good reason to do so, for example you have a real prospect of successfully defending the original claim.

You will need to make an application on Form N244, supported by a witness statement and a draft defence. You may also need to attend a hearing.

To learn more about applying to set aside a CCJ, read our article: How to Get a CCJ Set Aside | Step-By-Step Guide

Take Action Now to Protect Your Future

If you’ve received a CCJ, it’s crucial to act quickly to minimize its impact on your life, especially when it comes to your job prospects. Whether you choose to pay it off, wait for it to be removed after six years, or apply to set it aside, taking the right steps can significantly improve your chances of securing employment and restoring your financial standing. Addressing a CCJ promptly is the key to moving forward with confidence and peace of mind.

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Andrew Crisp is the Principal Solicitor at Mason Bullock Solicitors, where he specialises in employment law and dispute resolution. With over two decades of legal experience, Andrew has built a reputation for his expertise in advising employees on settlement agreements and helping clients navigate complex litigation processes, including the removal of County Court Judgments (CCJs).