Updated 6 January 2026
Life after a debt management plan
A debt management plan (DMP) gives you longer to pay off your unsecured debts by reducing your monthly payments to an affordable level. How long it lasts will depend on how much debt you have and how much you can afford to pay each month. But what will your life be like after a DMP?
This guide explores how easy it is to get credit after a DMP, the effect on your credit file and ways to improve your credit rating.
When will a DMP disappear from my credit file?
A DMP isn’t listed in its own right on your credit report. Instead, each debt will stay on your report for six years from the date you default on them or settle them. This means records of some debts may stay on your credit file for six years after you finish your DMP.
How can I rebuild my credit score after a DMP?
Your credit score might get worse when you’re on a DMP as you’ll be paying less than originally agreed.
While records of the debts included in your DMP remain on your file, it will hurt your credit score and you may find it difficult to borrow from mainstream lenders.
But as your debts get older or disappear from your credit report altogether, your score should start to recover.
You can then take steps to rebuild your credit score.
Ways to do this include:
- asking credit reference agencies to correct any inaccurate information on your credit report
- making sure you’re registered to vote
- borrowing small amounts from specialist lenders
- making all repayments on time and in full
Written by: Rebecca Routledge
Head of Content
A qualified journalist for over 15 years with a background in financial services. Rebecca is Money Wellness’s consumer champion, helping you improve your financial wellbeing by providing information on everything from income maximisation to budgeting and saving tips.
Financial Promotions Manager
Last updated: 6 January 2026
Written by: Rebecca Routledge
Head of Content
Last updated: 6 January 2026