Consumer rights8 min
Prescribed Debt in South Africa
How debt prescription can work, what can interrupt it and why old debts should be checked carefully.
What prescription means
Prescription generally deals with whether a debt has become too old to enforce, but the answer depends on the debt type, dates and interruption events.
Not every debt uses the same period
Avoid the simple claim that all debt prescribes after three years. Some debts have different periods, and legal action or acknowledgment can affect the timeline.
Events that may interrupt prescription
- Acknowledging the debt.
- Making payment.
- Legal process being served or started.
Before paying an old disputed debt
Ask for the agreement, statement history, last payment date, legal history and collector's authority. Do not admit liability if you are unsure and need advice.
Credit report issues
Old or disputed debt can also raise credit-report questions. If information is factually wrong, use the bureau dispute process and keep proof.