Am I Under Debt Review? How to Check Your Status in SA
Not sure if you're under debt review? Learn how to check your status, what to do if your debt counsellor closed, and how to get a clearance certificate.
"Am I under debt review?" is a question more people are asking. Industry reports suggest many people who approach debt counselling firms aren't sure of their status, and some who think they know turn out to be wrong.
You might have applied years ago and stopped paying. Your debt counsellor may have closed down. Or a lender may have declined you "because of debt review" when you didn't think you were in it. This guide shows you how to find out for sure, and what to do next.
A Financial Assessor can help confirm your status as part of a free assessment. Start here.
Why your status matters
- You can't take on new credit while you're under debt review
- Lenders will decline you while the flag is active
- If you think you're protected but your application lapsed, creditors may still be able to take action
- If your debts are already paid off, you may only need a clearance certificate to close the process
How to check if you're under debt review
- Get your free credit report. You're entitled to a free credit report once a year from each credit bureau. Look for a debt review flag or notes about debt counselling.
- Contact your previous debt counsellor. If you know who handled your application, ask for a status letter.
- Check with the National Credit Regulator. If your counsellor has closed down or can't be reached, the NCR can tell you how to proceed.
- Ask a registered debt counsellor to check for you. They can confirm your status and explain your options.
A credit report alone doesn't always tell the full story, because flags can be outdated. If the report and your memory don't match, get a debt counsellor to confirm.
What your result means and what to do next
| Your status | What it means | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Not under debt review | No active flag | If you're struggling, see debt consolidation vs debt review |
| Under debt review and paying | Your plan is active | Keep paying; ask your counsellor for a statement |
| Under debt review but stopped paying | Your protection may be at risk | Speak to a debt counsellor urgently |
| Debt counsellor closed or unreachable | Your file needs a new home | Transfer to a new registered debt counsellor |
| Debts paid, flag still showing | You may qualify for a clearance certificate | Ask for your clearance certificate |
What if my debt counsellor closed down?
Your debt review doesn't simply disappear when a counsellor closes. You can transfer your file to another registered debt counsellor, who takes over managing your plan and communicating with creditors. Don't stop paying while you sort this out; ask your new counsellor where payments should go.
How do I get out of debt review?
- Clearance certificate. Once you've paid all debts in your plan (except a home loan, if you have one), your debt counsellor issues a clearance certificate under section 71 of the NCA. The debt review flag is then removed from your credit record.
- Before an order is granted. If your application hasn't yet become a court order or consent order, it may be possible to withdraw, depending on your circumstances. Get advice first, because withdrawing removes your protection.
Be wary of companies promising "instant debt review removal" for a fee. If your debts aren't paid, there is usually no legitimate shortcut. Read our guide to debt consolidation scams for the warning signs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I'm under debt review?
Check your free annual credit report for a debt review flag, contact your previous debt counsellor, or ask a registered debt counsellor to confirm your status.
Can I check my debt review status online?
You can request your credit report online from the credit bureaux. A registered debt counsellor can also check and confirm your status for you.
What happens if I stop paying while under debt review?
Your creditors may be able to terminate the process and take legal action. Speak to a debt counsellor before you stop paying.
How long does it take to remove debt review from my credit record?
Once your debt counsellor issues a clearance certificate, the bureaux update your record. Ask your counsellor about current timelines.
My debt counsellor closed down. Am I still under debt review?
Yes, most likely. Your file can be transferred to a new registered debt counsellor.
Consolidation Relief works with registered professionals. This article is general information, not financial advice. Not sure of your status? Start a free assessment.