My ex-partner took out debt in my name without my permission - what can I do?
Report it to the police if your ex-partner applies for a debt in your name without telling you. They might do this by:
- Applying as you
- Adding your name to a joint debt
This behaviour could be classed as fraud, but it is not guaranteed.
- The police decide whether to consider it is a criminal fraud offence
- Prosecutors then decide if there is enough proof to start criminal proceedings
You may be able to pursue the matter privately through the civil courts. Speak to a solicitor before you do this.
The people you owe will still expect you to pay the debt unless:
- They investigate your claim and
- They agree the credit was taken out by fraud
Speak to your creditor in confidence. They may be able to help people with debt from bad relationships or a history of abuse.
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Has a partner, ex-partner or family member done any of the following?
- Taken out credit in your name?
- Made you use credit to buy something you do not want?
- Put bills in your name?
- Did they do it without your permission?
Economic abuse and coerced debt can be hard to recognise.
Learn how to spot the signs here.
Could I take my ex-partner to court for money that they owe me?
It may be possible to take your ex-partner to small claims court for money they owe you if you have proof of them admitting they owe you money by:
The court is not likely to consider your case if:
- You and your ex-partner made an agreement on how much to pay to the debt each month and
- Your ex-partner has kept up with these payments
You are more likely to take the case to court if:
- Your ex-partner has missed payments or refuses to pay, and
- You can prove that an agreement was made
Speak to a solicitor to find out if this is worth pursuing.
In some cases it may cost more money to take an ex-partner to court than look at other ways they could pay the money back.
Visit Citizens Advice for more on how to get free or affordable legal advice.