Can You Take a Break From Debt Review? Here's What You Need to Know

If you're under debt review and going through a tough financial month, you might be wondering, "Can I skip this month's payment?" It's a common question we get at Debt Review Centre, and while the short answer is no — not without consequences — the full picture is a bit more flexible. Let's talk about what your real options are when money is tight.

The Debt Review 'Payment Holiday' Myth

We totally understand — some months are harder than others. But when you're under debt review, skipping a payment isn't as simple as just taking a break. There’s no official 'payment holiday' built into the system. Missing a payment without a proper plan could put your whole debt review status and court order at risk.

But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. There's something called a Debt Postponement Application, also often called a debt freeze, that might help in more serious situations.

What’s a Debt Freeze, and Who Can Apply?

This isn't for a once-off tough month — it’s for when you’re facing a more serious, long-term financial setback. If approved by the court, you can get up to 6 months where you don’t make payments toward your unsecured debt, like credit cards, personal loans, and retail store accounts.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Only unsecured debts qualify — so this won’t apply to your car, house, or other secured debts.
• You must continue paying for secured debt like car finance or a home loan, otherwise legal action could be taken.
• This process goes through the courts — it’s not automatic, and it does require valid proof and documentation of your financial hardship.

An example: If the court grants a debt freeze on 1 June, your next repayment would only be due around 1 December. That can give you some breathing room, but you need to stay on top of secured assets to avoid repossession or legal complications.

Just One Tough Month? Here’s What to Do

If it’s just a once-off emergency — maybe unexpected car repairs, a medical bill, or job-related issues — you may be able to postpone your payment for just that month.

The key is communication and timing:

• Let us know in writing before your payment is due. We can’t help if you contact us after you’ve defaulted.
• We’ll contact your credit providers to explain the situation and see if they’ll allow a one-month grace period.
• Provide proof of the emergency — receipts, emails, or a doctor’s note — anything that shows you’re genuinely unable to pay this month.

Credit providers are usually pretty understanding if we move quickly and explain properly — but again, timing is everything.

Talking to Credit Providers: Do it Right

One of the biggest mistakes people make is saying nothing and hoping it’ll work out. It won’t. If you’re under debt review, your repayment plan is legally binding, and missing a payment without advising your credit providers can break that agreement.

Here’s how we help you protect your status:

• We handle communication for you — that’s what we’re here for!
• We make sure everything is documented, so no one can say they weren’t informed.
• We keep you in the loop, so you know every step of what’s happening.

If you’ve been wondering about other debt review concerns like how debt review works or what happens if you miss a payment, those articles may be helpful too.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let One Tough Month Undo Your Progress

Life happens. We get it. But if you’re under debt review and struggling, the worst thing you can do is try to handle it all on your own or delay taking action.

Whether it’s a one-month emergency or a long-term problem, your first step should always be to talk to us. We're here to help you find the best solution, keep things legal and on track, and avoid any unnecessary stress with your creditors.

Want to know more or have questions specific to your situation? Get in touch with our team — we’re ready to help!

Debt Review Centre: Helping South Africans breathe easier, one payment at a time.