---
title: "Lender Rejected Your DCA Claim (Here is What to Do Next)"
canonical: "https://carfinancerefundletter.co.uk/blog/what-to-do-if-lender-rejects"
date: "2025-11-26T09:00:00.000Z"
---
# Lender Rejected Your DCA Claim (Here is What to Do Next)

_Published: November 26, 2025_ · _2 min read_

A rejection letter is not the end (it is step one). Learn the 3 grounds lenders use to reject claims, how to challenge each one, and when to escalate to the free FOS service.

**Canonical:** [HTML article](https://carfinancerefundletter.co.uk/blog/what-to-do-if-lender-rejects)

---

Receiving a "No" letter is disheartening, but in the world of financial claims, it is standard operating procedure for many institutions.

## Analyse the Rejection
Why did they say no?
1. **"No DCA found":** They claim the dealer had no discretion.
   - *Action:* Ask for proof. See our [step-by-step guide](/blog/step-by-step-guide-submitting-complaint) for how to formally request a copy of the commission agreement.
2. **"Time Barred":** They claim it's too late.
   - *Action:* Challenge this. The "clock" for complaining often starts from when you *became aware* of the issue (i.e., when the news broke recently), not when you bought the car.
3. **"Fair Commission":** They admit commission but say it was reasonable.
   - *Action:* This is subjective. The FOS may disagree.

## Escalate to the FOS
If you are not satisfied with their answer, you have 6 months from the date of their rejection letter to take it to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
- This costs you nothing.
- It forces an independent review.
- Lenders often settle once they know the FOS is involved, to avoid the case fee (lenders pay ~£750 per case, regardless of the outcome).

## Persistence Pays
Many valid claims are rejected at the first hurdle in the hope that the customer gives up. Be the customer who doesn't.