What to do if you are under debt review?

Asked by: Mariah Huel  |  Last update: March 16, 2024
Score: 4.6/5 (40 votes)

Exiting debt review typically requires fulfilling the agreed-upon repayment plan and clearing all outstanding balances. The timeframe for completion depends on the initial debt amount, your income, and the terms of your agreement.

Is it worth going under debt review?

The advantage of going under debt review means that you no longer have to stress about your monthly debt repayments. A debt counsellor will simplify the process for you. And you will only have one fixed lower repayment per month to pay towards your debt.

How can I get out of debt review?

ii. The only way to end or exit the debt review is in terms of section 71 through the issuance of a clearance certificate by a debt counsellor once the all the substantive and procedural statutory requirements have been met.

Can I settle my account while under debt review?

The answer: Yes, you can pay your creditors directly while under debt review if you choose to do so from the start. A consumer in debt review has two options for repaying their debts, according to the National Credit Act: Pay your debt yourself, or allow your debt counsellor to do it for you.

Can I negotiate with my creditors while on debt review?

A: Yes, you definitely can – don't feel intimidated by creditors; you have the right to negotiate with them if you anticipate that you will be having trouble repaying your debt.

How to exit debt review

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What are the disadvantages of debt review?

The Cons: You will not be allowed to get credit while in the program. Your Debt Review will be listed on your credit record until the completion of the program or when all your debt listed under Debt Review are paid up in full. The payment period of your debt will be extended in order to lower your monthly instalments.

How much does it cost to remove debt review?

How much does it cost to be removed from Debt Review? The cost of debt review removal through The National Debt Review Center is set at R8550. 00 vat exclusive, with an option to pay this amount over 2 or 3 months.

Is it better to settle debt or not pay?

Is it better to settle debt or pay in full? Paying debt in full is almost always the better option when possible. Research debt payment strategies — debt consolidation could be a good option — and consider getting financial counseling.

How long should you be under debt review?

'Debt review' stays on your name until you complete the debt review process, get your clearance certificate and are declared debt-free. This usually takes between 36-60 months, but it can be even faster. After the process, the debt review status is permanently removed.

Will my credit score go up if I settle my debt?

Settling debt can have both a negative and a positive effect on your credit scores. You're most likely to see a drop in points up-front, but over time you can gain back everything you lost and more. Regardless of the setback, you can always work to experience the benefits of better credit.

Can I apply for a cellphone contract while under debt review?

A cellphone contract is considered to be a service agreement - not a credit agreement. As a result, it is generally not part of the debt counselling (or debt review) process (unless the consumer is in arrears with their cellphone contract, in which case the cellphone contract could become part of the process).

What happens if I can't pay my debt review?

If you fail to make payment in no uncertain terms, you are taking a step back and further away from reaching financial freedom again. Your creditors will have sufficient legal grounds to terminate your Debt Review and commence legal action against you.

What will my credit score be after debt review?

Your credit score will be low just after successfully completing the debt review process. Slowly building your credit score will take some time. Here you should allow for another few months to build this score back up again.

What is the longest you can be under debt review?

This is generally 60 months that is 5 years. This is the most that credit providers can accept. What this means is that the amount that we will propose to pay every month should at least pay off the outstanding debt within 5 years. This excludes the home loan.

Will I lose my assets with debt review?

The fear of losing assets while under debt review is a genuine concern for people and prevents many from seeking debt counselling. However, the fear is unfounded as debt review protects your assets.

Who doesn't qualify for debt review?

If you have no income at all, a debt review may not be possible because there are no funds to work with. However, do not lose hope. A debt counselor can advise you on other options, which may include: Payment Holiday: Arranging for a temporary pause on debt repayments until you find employment.

Why should you avoid debt settlement companies?

Before agreeing to work with a debt settlement company, there are risks that you should consider: Debt settlement companies often charge expensive fees. Debt settlement companies typically encourage you to stop paying your credit card bills.

Can I buy a house after debt settlement?

Yes, you can buy a home after debt settlement. You'll just have to meet the lender's requirements to qualify for a mortgage. Unfortunately, that could be harder after you settle debt.

What is the lowest amount to settle debt?

You can attempt to settle debts on your own or hire a debt settlement company to assist you. Typical debt settlement offers range from 10% to 50% of the amount you owe. Creditors are under no obligation to accept an offer and reduce your debt, even if you are working with a reputable debt settlement company.

Is debt review permanent?

There is no permanent record of having applied for debt review once the Debt Counsellor removes you from debt review. To learn more on the benefits of debt review click here: the benefits of debt review.

How do I write a letter to cancel debt review?

Cancellation Letter Writing

When writing your cancellation letter, start by addressing it to the relevant parties involved in the debt review process. Clearly state your intention to withdraw from the process and provide any necessary information such as your name, ID number, and reference number.

How long does it take to clear your name from ITC?

7 — 20 days. This is the average amount of time it takes for your name to be removed from the credit bureau's blacklist. In order to accomplish this, you must first pay off your debts. The credit bureau determines your credit score based on your financial history.

What are the pros and cons of being under debt review?

Debt Review Pros and Cons: The Basics
  • Reducing your monthly payments.
  • Offer consolidated payment.
  • Protect you from creditors and credit bureaus.
  • Your assets will be safe and legal action will be prevented.
  • Provide a regimented path toward freedom from debt.
  • No permanent record of your debt review status.

What do you need to qualify for debt review?

Qualifying Criteria Debt Review?
  • Must be Employed or have an Income. ...
  • If Married in Community of Property your Spouse must be included in the process. ...
  • If a joint owner but Unmarried or Married Out of Community of Property then your spouse or partner should seriously consider taking part in the process. ...
  • Affordability.

Do banks offer debt review?

Standard Bank Debt Review​​​​​​

The National Credit Act offers debt relief to over-indebted consumers through the debt review process. The Standard Bank Debt Review department handles all debt review applications that have been received from debt counsellors on behalf of financially distressed consumers.