5 Signs You May Need Debt Review in South Africa

5 Signs You May Need Debt Review in South Africa

Debt is a reality for many South Africans. With the rising cost of living, fuel hikes, and increasing interest rates, it's no surprise that more people are struggling to keep up with monthly repayments. If you feel overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone—and that there is help available. One powerful tool for regaining control of your finances is Debt Review.

At Smart Debt Solutions, we specialise in guiding South Africans through the Debt Review process, offering relief and a clear path toward financial freedom. Here are five signs it might be time to consider entering Debt Review.

1. You're Falling Behind on Payments

Are you skipping payments, receiving collection calls, or getting threatening SMSes from creditors? Once you begin missing payments, it’s often difficult to catch up. Under Debt Review, your repayments are restructured into one affordable monthly amount that fits your budget—and legal protection stops creditors from harassing you.

2. You’re Living Off Credit

If you rely on your credit card or overdraft just to make it to month-end, it’s a sign your debt-to-income ratio is out of balance. Debt Review can help by freezing high-interest debt and allowing you to repay over time at a reduced rate.

3. You Have More Debt Than Income

When your monthly debt repayments are more than your income (or leave little for essentials like food and transport), you’re in what's called "over-indebted." In South Africa, this is exactly the situation that Debt Review was designed to help with. It’s a legal process under the National Credit Act (NCA) that protects your rights and helps you recover.

4. You’ve Been Declined for Credit

Being refused new credit is a sign that your financial profile is at risk. Credit providers often see high levels of debt as a warning. Under Debt Review, your credit is paused—not ruined—while you repay what you owe in a structured, manageable way. Once you’ve completed the process, you receive a clearance certificate, and your credit record is restored.

5. Your Finances Are Affecting Your Health and Relationships

Stress over unpaid bills, fighting about money, and feeling anxious at month-end are more than just symptoms—they’re red flags. Your mental health and relationships can suffer when financial pressure becomes too much. Debt Review provides relief by putting a stop to legal threats and creating a stable plan forward.

What is Debt Review and How Does it Work?

Debt Review is a legal debt rehabilitation program introduced in 2007 under the National Credit Act. It allows over-indebted consumers to:

• Consolidate their debts into one affordable monthly repayment

• Freeze legal action from credit providers

• Avoid losing assets like cars or homes (if not yet repossessed)

• Become debt-free through structured repayment over 3–5 years

At Smart Debt Solutions, we assess your financial situation, negotiate with creditors on your behalf, and support you throughout your journey until you’re debt-free.

Let Smart Debt Solutions Help You Breathe Again

If these signs feel familiar, you don’t have to face it alone. Our expert team will guide you through the Debt Review process with empathy, confidentiality, and professionalism.

💬 Free debt assessment

📞 Speak to a qualified debt advisor today

🛑 Stop the stress. Start your journey to financial freedom.