What is a CCA request?
A CCA request (Consumer Credit Act request) is a formal written demand under Sections 77–79 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974. It forces the creditor or debt collector to send you a copy of the original signed credit agreement. Without it, they cannot legally enforce the debt.
When to use it
A CCA request is relevant for regulated credit agreements — credit cards, personal loans, store cards, hire purchase, and overdrafts. It is not applicable to mortgages, utility bills, or court fines. It is most powerful when the debt is old, has been sold to a third party, or when you have doubts about whether the agreement was properly executed.
How to send the request
Step 1: Write to the current creditor or collector — whoever sent you the letter. Address it to their correspondence address.
Step 2: State clearly you are making a request under Section 77 (fixed-sum loans), Section 78 (running accounts like credit cards), or Section 79 (hire purchase) of the Consumer Credit Act 1974.
Step 3: Include a £1 postal order. This is the statutory fee. Do not send more — a higher payment could be treated as a partial payment on the debt.
Step 4: Send by recorded delivery and keep proof of postage.
Step 5: Note the date sent. They have 12 working days to comply.
What happens next
If they comply and produce the agreement: review it carefully. If it was not properly executed, or if it is missing prescribed terms, the debt may still be unenforceable even with a document.
If they do not comply within 12 working days: the debt is unenforceable for as long as the default continues. They cannot take court action while in default of the request. They should also stop demanding payment.
Do not make any payment while waiting for the CCA response. Even a small payment can complicate your position.
A CCA request does not make the debt disappear. It puts enforcement on hold until they comply. If they eventually produce a valid agreement, enforcement can resume.
Keep every piece of correspondence. If this escalates to court, your paper trail matters.
Not sure if a CCA request applies to your situation?
Upload your debt letter and get a clear assessment — including whether a CCA request is the right move and a ready-to-send letter.
Upload your letter — it's free →Yes — and it is often most effective for sold debts. Debt purchasers frequently do not have the original agreement and cannot comply. Send it to the current holder.
Creditors are allowed to send a "true copy" which may be a reconstituted version rather than an exact photocopy. However it must contain all the prescribed terms. If it is missing key terms it may still be unenforceable.
They are separate defences. A CCA request addresses enforceability of the agreement. Statute barred addresses whether the limitation period has expired. You can raise both simultaneously for maximum protection.