How to Improve Your Credit Score After an IVA

Updated for 2026

If you have recently completed an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA), you may be wondering how to improve your credit score after an IVA. The good news is that with patience and the right approach, you can rebuild your financial standing and access credit again.

How Long Does an IVA Stay on Your Credit Report?

An IVA remains on your credit report for six years from the date it was registered. Once that period ends, it is removed automatically. Your entry on the Insolvency Register will also be cleared, which is a significant step towards a fresh start.

Keep in mind that it can take a few weeks for the records to update across all three credit reference agencies (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion). If you notice the IVA still showing after six years, contact the agency directly with a copy of your IVA completion certificate and they will correct the record.

Confirm Your IVA Is Fully Completed

Before you focus on rebuilding, make sure your IVA has been formally completed by your Insolvency Practitioner. They will confirm that all required monthly payments were made on time. If any payments were missed, the arrangement may have been extended. Once everything is settled, you will receive a completion certificate.

If you were asked to remortgage your home as part of the IVA terms, ensure that has also been resolved before you consider the arrangement complete.

Steps to Improve Your Credit Score After an IVA

1. Check your credit report for errors

Request a copy of your credit report from all three agencies. Look for any debts that were included in the IVA but are still showing as outstanding. These should be marked as “satisfied” or removed entirely. Errors like this can drag your score down unnecessarily.

2. Register on the electoral roll

Being registered at your current address gives your credit score an immediate boost. Lenders use the electoral roll to verify your identity and address, so this is one of the quickest wins available.

3. Pay all bills on time, every time

Your payment history is one of the biggest factors in your credit score. Set up direct debits for household bills, mobile phone contracts and any other regular payments. Even a single missed payment can set you back significantly.

4. Use a credit builder card responsibly

A credit builder card is designed for people with poor or limited credit history. Spend a small amount each month and pay the balance in full. This demonstrates to lenders that you can manage credit responsibly. Avoid carrying a balance, as the interest rates on these cards tend to be high.

5. Keep your credit utilisation low

If you do have access to credit, try to use no more than 25% of your available limit. High utilisation signals to lenders that you may be relying on credit to get by, which can hurt your score.

6. Avoid multiple credit applications

Each application leaves a “hard search” on your credit file. Too many in a short space of time can make you look desperate for credit. Space out any applications and use eligibility checkers (which only perform a soft search) before applying.

7. Build a savings habit

While savings do not directly affect your credit score, having a financial cushion reduces the risk of falling back into debt. During your IVA you will have grown used to living within a budget, so try to maintain that discipline and put aside what you can each month.

How Long Does It Take to Rebuild Your Credit After an IVA?

There is no fixed timeline. Some people see noticeable improvements within 12 months of their IVA ending, while for others it can take two to three years to reach a “good” credit score. The key is consistency: keep up with payments, avoid unnecessary debt and be patient.

What If an IVA Was Not the Right Option?

If you are still struggling with debt or an IVA was not suitable for your situation, there are other solutions worth exploring. A Debt Relief Order (DRO) is now available for debts up to £50,000 and the application fee has been removed entirely since April 2024, making it free to apply. Bankruptcy is another option, with the current application fee at £680. Each solution suits different circumstances, so it is important to get proper advice before making a decision.

Further Reading

You might also find these guides helpful:

• 6 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score
• IVA vs Bankruptcy: Which Is the Better Option?
• 10 Reasons an IVA Is Worth It
• 5 Scenarios Where an IVA Could Be the Best Solution

This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice. If you are unsure about your options, seek guidance from a qualified debt adviser.