Checklist for responding to a request to correct data

  • Practical guidance
  • Reduces the risk of fines or sanctions
  • Helps you comply with UK GDPR obligations

This checklist for responding to a request to correct data sets out the steps to take when an individual asks you to correct inaccurate or incomplete personal data you have about them.

If you receive a request to correct personal data from an individual, you usually have one month to respond.

This checklist sets out a handy summary of the steps to take, as well as links to template letters that can be used in your response.

Q&A

  • When should I use this document?

    Use this checklist for responding to a request to correct data when you receive a request from an individual to correct personal data that you business holds about them.

  • What does this document cover?

    This checklist guides you on the process you should follow when responding to a request to correct personal data, including checking the identity of the individual making the request, and notifying any third parties with whom you have shared the personal data.

  • Why do I need this document?

    As the time frame for responding to a request to correct data is usually one month, it is important that you take all the necessary steps in good time to avoid any potential fines or sanctions.

    This guide is a useful reference when making sure you are complying with your data protection obligations.

  • Where can I find out more?

    For further guidance on what to do when you are asked to correct inaccurate personal data, see Requests to correct inaccurate data.

Related Toolkits

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  • How-to guide: Data breach toolkit

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This data subject request toolkit guides you through the process of dealing with data subject requests (individuals' requests for access to, changing or deletion of their personal data). This toolkit contains a how-to guide as well as a pack of 22 relevant documents to cover various types of requests. The template documents you will receive in this toolkit include: policies and forms for dealing with data subject requests; letters for acknowledging receipt of a data subject request, verifying the person's identity and asking for further details; letters to give you extensions of time to respond; letters for responding to the request and explaining what further action you will take (such as correction or deletion of the data); letters for supplying data in response to portability requests; and more. By using this data subject request toolkit, you will comply with your legal obligations for dealing with data subject requests. This minimises the risk of someone making a complaint against you or you being penalised by the ICO. Having efficient and proper data protection processes in place also helps to protect customer data, ensure good customer relationships and maintain your business's reputation.
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Small claims toolkit

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