# How long do negative items stay on a Canadian credit report?

> Varies by province: Late payments: 6 years from date of last activity.

Category: Qualification
Last verified: 2026-02-18
Source: https://ratellow.com/faqs/qualification/how-long-do-negative-items-stay-on-a-canadian-credit-report

## Answer
Varies by province: Late payments: 6 years from date of last activity. Collections: 6 years (7 in some provinces) from date of last activity. Bankruptcy (first): 6-7 years from discharge. Consumer proposal: 3 years after completion or 6 years from filing, whichever is earlier. Judgments: 6 years. Credit counselling: 2-3 years after completion. Note: Equifax and TransUnion may have slightly different retention periods.

## Related guide
- https://ratellow.com/guides/credit-repair-mortgage-readiness

## Sources
- FCAC Consumer Credit Protection — https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/industry/laws-regulations/guideline-existing-mortgage-loans-exceptional-circumstances.html#toc1
- CMHC Credit Score Requirements — https://assets.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/sf/project/cmhc/pdfs/factsheets/new/cmhc-quick-reference.pdf