Short answer:
Debt review, also known as debt counselling, is a legal process in South Africa under the National Credit Act (NCA) designed to help over-indebted individuals manage their debts. It involves working with a registered debt counsellor to reduce monthly payments, protect your assets, and create a structured plan to regain financial control.
For an estimate of your debt situation, try our free debt calculator.
How Debt Review Works
Assessment of Finances
- A registered debt counsellor reviews your income, expenses, and total debt to understand your financial situation.
Negotiation With Creditors
- Creditors are contacted to reduce monthly payments and establish an affordable repayment plan.
Single Monthly Payment
- You make one consolidated payment through a Payment Distribution Agency (PDA), which distributes funds to creditors according to the agreed plan.
Legal Protection
- While under debt review, creditors cannot take legal action or repossess your assets.
- This protection is provided under the NCA and lasts for the duration of your repayment plan.
For more information, please see our debt review solutions.
Why Debt Review Matters
- It is not a quick fix, but a structured, long-term solution to regain financial stability.
- Helps you avoid repossession, legal conflict, and further financial stress.
- Guides you toward a debt-free future, typically over 3–5 years, depending on your circumstances.
For more on the benefits of the process, see:
Use our free debt calculator to find out if you are over-indebted