Answers / Sanderson Drake
What are the signs of being mis-sold credit in the UK?
TL;DR: You may have been mis-sold credit if the product wasn't properly explained, wasn't suitable for your situation, or you were approved for borrowing that was clearly unaffordable. Being pressured or misled into taking credit can also be a sign of mis-selling.
Key points
- Mis-selling can affect loans, credit cards, overdrafts, car finance and other credit.
- Key signs include poor explanation, missing information or sales pressure.
- Lending that leaves you unable to cover essential bills may have been unsuitable.
- You can complain and ask the firm to put things right if you think you were mis-sold.
- If the firm doesn't resolve it, you can usually go to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Short explainer
"Mis-sold" credit doesn't just mean you regret taking it out. It means you weren't given the right information, the product wasn't suitable for you, or the lender didn't follow the rules when they agreed the credit.
Common warning signs include:
- You didn't understand the interest rate, fees or how long it would take to repay.
- Important risks (for example, losing your car or home if you fell behind) weren't explained.
- You felt pressured or rushed into signing up, or were told you had to decide immediately.
- The lender or broker didn't ask about your income, regular bills or existing debts.
- Repayments quickly became unmanageable and you had to borrow again to keep up.
- Your credit limit was increased without a proper check to see if it was affordable.
If you think you've been mis-sold:
- Collect statements, agreements and any messages or emails about the sale.
- Complain to the lender or provider, explaining clearly what went wrong.
- If you're unhappy with their final response, contact the Financial Ombudsman Service, which is free and independent.
Sanderson Drake focus on mis-sold and irresponsible lending claims and can review your credit history to see whether you may have grounds to claim compensation.
Note: Some firms offering help with mis-sold credit charge a fee. You can always complain directly to the lender and the Financial Ombudsman Service yourself, without using a paid intermediary.
How we know
This page is a general guide. Whether credit was mis-sold depends on the details of your case and the evidence available.
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