Debt review is often misunderstood, with many fearing that it permanently damages their financial standing. This misconception prevents some South Africans from seeking the help they need to regain control of their finances. If you're wondering whether debt review can ruin your credit forever, this guide will give you a clear understanding of what debt review is, how it affects your credit profile, and how you can rebuild your credit after completing the process.
Debt review, also known as debt counseling, is a legal process introduced in South Africa under the National Credit Act (NCA) in 2007. It’s designed to assist over-indebted individuals by restructuring their debts into more affordable monthly payments. The process ensures:
Debt review aims to rehabilitate your finances, not to ruin your credit or make borrowing impossible.
When you enter debt review, the National Credit Regulator (NCR) notifies the credit bureaus. Your credit profile is flagged as "under debt review." This status means you cannot take on additional credit while in the program.
Debt review itself does not directly harm your credit score. However, your score might already be low due to missed payments, defaults, or legal actions before entering debt review. Under the programme:
The short answer is: No, debt review does not ruin your credit forever.
The impact of debt review is temporary and reversible. Once you complete the programme and receive a clearance certificate, the "under debt review" status is removed from your credit profile. This allows you to rebuild your credit over time.
Key Facts:
Completing debt review is the most important step to ensuring your credit profile recovers fully. Here's how to do it:
Your debt counsellor will create a payment plan tailored to your financial situation. Stick to this plan and make all payments on time.
The programme prohibits additional credit. Abiding by this rule ensures you can repay your existing debt without added financial strain.
If your financial situation changes, inform your debt counsellor immediately. They can renegotiate terms with your creditors if necessary.
Once you’ve settled all your restructured debts, your debt counsellor will issue a clearance certificate. This document confirms you’ve completed the process and have no outstanding debt under review.
After completing debt review, rebuilding your credit is crucial to restoring your financial reputation. Here’s how to get started:
Once the debt review flag is removed, verify that your credit report reflects this change. You’re entitled to one free credit report annually from each credit bureau in South Africa (TransUnion, Experian, XDS, and Compuscan).
Begin with manageable forms of credit to rebuild your score, such as:
Make small purchases and pay them off in full each month to establish a positive credit history.
Whether it’s utility bills or a new credit account, ensure all payments are made on or before the due date. Consistent on-time payments are one of the most effective ways to improve your credit score.
Avoid maxing out your credit cards or using a high percentage of your available credit. Aim to use less than 30% of your credit limit to show lenders you can manage credit responsibly.
Each credit application results in a hard inquiry on your profile, which can temporarily lower your score. Apply for credit only when necessary.
Debt review is often unfairly perceived as a financial trap, but it’s quite the opposite. Here’s why:
The flag remains until you’ve completed the debt review process and received a clearance certificate.
No. The process prohibits taking on additional credit to prevent further over-indebtedness.
If you exit debt review prematurely, creditors may resume legal action to recover unpaid debts. This could worsen your financial situation and harm your credit profile further.
Debt review is a temporary solution designed to help over-indebted individuals regain control of their finances. While it does impose restrictions on your credit during the process, it does not ruin your credit forever. By completing the programme and following good financial practices, you can rebuild your credit and achieve long-term financial stability. If you are keen to learn more check out this blog.
If you're struggling with debt and unsure about your options, Meerkat is here to help. Our experienced debt counsellors can guide you through the process and set you on the path to financial freedom.
Contact us today for a free debt assessment and take the first step toward a brighter financial future.