IVA
Credit cards after an IVA
Finished your IVA? Here's a clear guide to credit cards after your IVA: which lenders consider a completed IVA, and how to reduce the chance of a decline.
- IVA completed
- Builder card
Free to use, no obligation. The plan itself won't affect your credit score. It is not advice, and acceptance is never guaranteed.
Written and reviewed by the AfterMy team · Last reviewed October 2026
Quick answerYou can apply. Some lenders consider people who have completed an IVA. Each sets its own criteria, and acceptance is never guaranteed. Builder cards usually start with a low limit. Checking your eligibility before you apply helps you avoid declines and unnecessary hard searches.
Still in your IVA rather than finished? Read can I get a credit card during an IVA instead.
On this page
Can you get a credit card after a completed IVA?
You don't have to wait until the marker drops off your file to apply. (It stays on your credit file for six years from the date your IVA started, or until completion if that was later, and some specialist builder-card lenders consider applicants while it's there.) 'Rebuild' cards are made for people rebuilding their credit: small limits, made for showing lenders you can manage credit again.
We only help once your IVA is complete, never while it's still running.
Which lenders consider a completed IVA?
Some specialist lenders consider people who've completed an IVA. Criteria change and acceptance is never guaranteed. Your Comeback Plan shows options where you're more likely to fit; lenders make their own decisions.
Finished your IVA? Your Comeback Plan maps your dates and shows options from our panel you may be able to apply for.
Start your Comeback PlanWhat to expect from a rebuild card
Rebuild cards usually start with a low limit and are meant to be used lightly and paid off in full each month. That builds the record of on-time payments lenders look at.
Used that way, a builder card quietly does its job: it builds a record of on-time payments that helps with future applications. It is still credit, so use it lightly and clear it in full each month.
Hard searches (and why they matter)
A hard search happens when you formally apply, and it does leave a footprint. A run of them can knock your progress back. So the safe approach is to only formally apply where you're likely to be accepted.
Mistakes to avoid
- Applying to several cards at once: space them out; each hard search adds up.
- Applying where you'll be declined: check eligibility first, to avoid collecting hard searches.
- Applying for a mainstream card without checking first: some mainstream lenders are more cautious while the IVA is on your file.
- Skipping the basics: being on the electoral roll and having a current account in your name come first. They're free, and they help.
How a card fits your comeback
A builder card helps you build a record, and as that record grows, lenders have more to go on. Your Comeback Plan maps your dates and shows options from our panel you may be able to apply for.
Guides
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Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a credit card after my IVA completes?
You can apply. Some lenders consider people who have completed an IVA. Each sets its own criteria, and acceptance is never guaranteed.
Will applying for a card hurt my credit score?
A formal application leaves a hard search on your file, and several in a short time can set you back.
What credit limit will I get?
Rebuild cards usually start low. Using a small limit well and paying in full each month can lead to limit increases over time.
Can I get a credit card while my IVA is still running?
We don't help with cards during an active IVA, and borrowing during an arrangement has rules attached. If you're still in your IVA, the best move is to keep your payments on track and get your credit file in good shape for when you finish.
How long until I can get a mainstream credit card?
There's no set time. Each lender sets its own criteria and looks at your record of on-time payments, and some are more cautious while the IVA marker is still on your file.
Finished your IVA?
Your Comeback Plan maps your dates and shows options from our panel you may be able to apply for.
Start your Comeback PlanFree to use, no obligation. The plan itself won't affect your credit score.