Taking a Cifas marker to the Financial Ombudsman
Updated 28 October 2026. General information, not legal advice.
In short
The Financial Ombudsman Service is free and independent, and it can tell a bank to remove a Cifas marker and pay compensation. You can go once the bank has sent its final response, or after 8 weeks without one. You must apply within 6 months of the date on the final response.
What the Ombudsman can do
The Financial Ombudsman Service settles complaints between consumers and financial businesses. It is free. If it finds the bank got it wrong, it can tell the bank to remove the marker and put things right, which can include paying for distress and inconvenience.
When you can go
- after the bank's final response, if you disagree with it, or
- after 8 weeks if the bank has not sent a final response.
You must complain to the bank first. You do not have to wait for a Cifas review: you can do both at the same time.
The deadline most people miss
You must bring your complaint within 6 months of the date on the bank's final response. Write that date down the day the letter arrives.
What to send
Apply online at financial-ombudsman.org.uk or by phone on 0800 023 4567. Have ready:
- the bank's final response, or proof that 8 weeks have passed,
- your complaint to the bank,
- your Cifas report, and the bank's data if you have it,
- your timeline and evidence, with clear file names,
- what you are asking for: removal of the marker, and anything else you want considered.
What happens next
An investigator looks at both sides and gives a view. Either side can disagree and ask for a final decision by an ombudsman. It can take several months. Reply to every message by the date they give, and ask for more time before that date if you need it.
Before the Ombudsman
If you have not complained to the bank yet, start there. Here is the full route, step by step.
Questions
Is the Financial Ombudsman free?
Yes, it is free for consumers.
What is the deadline for the Financial Ombudsman?
Six months from the date on the bank's final response.
Can the Ombudsman remove a Cifas marker?
It can tell the bank to remove the marker, and to pay compensation, if it finds the bank got it wrong.