How Long Does a Debt Review Flag Stay on Your Name?
If you’re currently under debt review in South Africa — or if you’re thinking about starting the process — one of the most common and important questions that you’ll likely ask is: “How long will the debt review flag stay on my name?” The duration of the flag isn’t based on a fixed timeframe set by law. Instead, it depends entirely on your personal repayment progress. In short, the faster you pay off your debt, the sooner the flag can be lifted. Once all your listed debts are paid in full and your home loan (if applicable) is up to date, you’ll receive a clearance certificate, allowing credit bureaus to officially remove the debt review status from your profile.
The duration of the flag isn’t based on a fixed timeframe set by law. Instead, it depends entirely on your personal repayment progress. In short, the faster you pay off your debt, the sooner the flag can be lifted. Once all your listed debts are paid in full and your home loan (if applicable) is up to date, you’ll receive a clearance certificate, allowing credit bureaus to officially remove the debt review status from your profile.
Understanding this timeline is key to planning your financial comeback — so let’s explore how it works in more detail:
How Long Will You Be Flagged Under Debt Review?
Your name will remain flagged as “under debt review” until all your debt obligations are settled, including any arrears on your bond (home loan). Once you’ve met all the terms of your debt review repayment plan, your debt counsellor will issue a clearance certificate.
This certificate is then submitted to the major credit bureaus, who are legally required to remove the debt review flag within 21 business days.
⏳ So, How Long Will It Take?
There’s no fixed time limit. The faster you pay off your debt, the sooner your name will be cleared. Many consumers accelerate the process by making extra monthly payments wherever possible.
What Does It Mean to Be Flagged Under Debt Review?
When you enter debt review, your debt counsellor notifies all credit bureaus. Your credit profile is then marked with a debt review flag. This means:
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You cannot take on new credit while under review
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Creditors will know you are receiving formal debt relief assistance
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The flag protects you from taking on more debt while you’re trying to get out of it
This safeguard exists to help you stay committed to becoming debt-free, without slipping back into financial strain.
🔍 How to Check If You’re Under Debt Review
Wondering if your name is flagged? It’s simple:
Get your free credit report HERE, or from any major credit bureau
Look for a note or status that says “Under Debt Review”
If you’re unsure, speak directly to a debt counsellor for confirmation and guidance
Can the Debt Review Flag Be Removed Early?
No. The only way to remove the debt review flag is to:
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Fully pay off all the credit agreements listed in your debt review plan
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Bring your home loan repayments up to date (if applicable)
Once this is done, your debt counsellor will issue a clearance certificate (Form 19), and your name will be cleared from all credit bureaus.
Tip: If you’re serious about becoming debt-free faster, consider putting any spare income (bonuses, tax refunds, side hustle earnings) toward your debt repayments.
What Happens After the Debt Review Flag Is Removed?
Good news! Once the flag is removed:
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You’ll regain access to credit
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You can apply for home loans, car finance, credit cards, and store accounts
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Your credit record begins to rebuild positively
This is your chance to start fresh and build a strong, healthy credit profile — but it’s essential to borrow responsibly going forward.
What If You’re Struggling with Debt?
If you’re behind on your monthly debt repayments and battling to keep up with living expenses, you may be over-indebted. Debt review is a legally protected solution designed to help South Africans like you get back on track — without losing your assets.
Need Help with Your Debt?
If you think you may be over-indebted, don’t wait.
Reach out to us TODAY so that we can help you. We understand the stress that you are going through. We know that it probably feels as if you have no options. Please do yourself a favour and contact us. We will help you every step of the way. You don’t have to do this alone anymore.
Contact us and let’s get you started to see if you qualify for the legal protection of debt review.
Further Reading:
Would you like to read more about the Debt Review flag and how and when it can be removed? Click HERE to read more on this really important topic!
