What is debt review?
Debt review is a formal process for assessing over-indebtedness and restructuring eligible credit repayments. A registered debt counsellor checks your income, necessary living costs and debts before recommending a way forward.
Debt review questions, answered
Find a short answer, then follow the guide for more detail. These answers explain the process; your counsellor can check how it applies to your finances and documents.
Before you apply
Is debt counselling the same as debt review?
In South Africa, the terms commonly refer to the same formal service. Debt counselling includes the assessment, repayment proposal and ongoing support. A free initial conversation is separate from applying for that process.
Who qualifies for debt review?
Suitability depends on your income, essential expenses and credit commitments. A calculator can show a possible budget shortfall, but a registered counsellor must assess your full circumstances.
What documents should I prepare?
Start with your income, a household budget, account statements and any legal notices. Supporting documents, including identity and marital-status information, may be needed for a formal assessment.
Can I speak to DRC without visiting an office?
Contact DRC to arrange a remote assessment and confirm how to send your documents. The team is based in Newton Park, Gqeberha, and assists people across South Africa.
How do I choose a debt counsellor?
Check the individual counsellor in the NCR register. Ask who will handle your case, how fees and payments work, and how you will receive progress updates. Take time to understand the agreement before signing.
Does my spouse need to apply with me?
Your marriage contract, shared finances and joint credit agreements matter. Tell the counsellor how you are married and which accounts you share. Have the relevant documents checked before deciding who needs to apply.
Costs, repayments and other options
Is debt review free?
DRC offers a free initial assessment. Formal debt counselling has fees. Ask for a written breakdown of the charges, payment dates and amounts going to creditors before deciding to proceed.
How much will I pay each month?
A proposed payment depends on your verified budget, accounts, fees and the arrangement that is accepted. A lower instalment may mean paying for longer. Compare the full schedule and total cost.
Is debt review a consolidation loan?
Debt review restructures existing eligible credit. A consolidation loan is new borrowing used to settle other debts. Compare affordability, total costs and restrictions before choosing an option.
Which debts can be included?
Give your counsellor a complete list of accounts, including arrears and any legal action. They must check which agreements can form part of a proposal and which obligations need a separate arrangement.
What happens to my insurance policies?
Include policy premiums in the assessment and explain which policies are linked to financed assets or credit agreements. Ask what must remain in place and get advice before cancelling or changing cover.
What if a creditor does not agree to the proposal?
Ask your counsellor which terms are disputed and what legal step is required next. Keep a copy of the proposal and any court or tribunal documents. Do not assume an estimate or an enquiry means the arrangement has been accepted.
While you are under debt review
Can I get a loan while under debt review?
New credit is restricted while you are under debt review. If an emergency makes your budget unworkable, speak to your counsellor about the problem and your current plan before seeking another loan.
What if I cannot afford this month's payment?
Contact your counsellor before the payment date if possible. Explain what changed and provide your updated figures. Do not assume you can pause or change a formal repayment plan on your own.
What happens if I lose my job?
Tell your counsellor promptly, review essential expenses and check whether any existing credit insurance may apply. Ask what is possible for your particular accounts and legal stage.
What should I do if a creditor contacts me?
Keep a record and send any letters or notices to your counsellor. Confirm the status of that account and your payment arrangement. Do not ignore a summons or a deadline because you have made an enquiry about debt review.
I received a Section 129 notice. What next?
Keep the full notice and make a note of when you received it. Get help promptly with the notice, account statement and any later court documents so someone can assess your available options.
Finishing or leaving debt review
How long does debt review take?
The repayment period depends on the debts included, interest, fees and what you can afford. Ask for a proposed schedule and review it with your counsellor when your circumstances change.
Can I cancel debt review?
Your options depend on the stage of the formal process, any finding of over-indebtedness and any court order. Completing the process and withdrawing an application are different situations. Ask for advice on your own records before paying for a removal service.
What happens after I complete the plan?
Ask your counsellor to check whether you meet the requirements for a clearance certificate and explain the credit-record update process. Keep the certificate and confirm that your credit reports reflect the correct status.
Still deciding what to do?
Use the free assessment checklist to collect your figures, or contact DRC to talk through your situation. An enquiry does not place you under debt review.