How to choose a registered debt counsellor in South Africa

Start with the person who will take responsibility for your assessment. Ask for their full name and NCRDC registration number, then verify both in the National Credit Regulator's register. A logo or a company name on its own is not enough.

Check registration and contact details

Match the counsellor's name, registration number and business details. Keep their telephone number, email address and office address. Ask who will handle your file and how you can reach that person during the repayment plan.

At DRC, you can view the public registration sources for Cornel Strydom, NCRDC1437, and Susan Strydom, NCRDC1355. Both are listed under Debt Review Centre at 22 Burt Drive, Newton Park, Gqeberha. Registration is an individual credential, not a promise of a particular financial result.

Ask what you are agreeing to

The first conversation should help you understand your options. Ask when an enquiry becomes a formal debt review application, what consent is needed for any credit check, and what documents you will receive. Do not sign a document you have not read or understood.

A useful assessment covers income, necessary living expenses, every credit account and any legal notices. Ask why the proposed option fits those facts. A promised percentage saving without an assessment is not a repayment proposal.

Compare the full price

Request a written breakdown of once-off and monthly charges, VAT, legal work and payment distribution costs. Ask when each amount is due and how much reaches creditors. Read the fee guide before comparing quotes.

Check optional products separately. You should understand what each product does, what it costs and whether you have agreed to it. Compare the proposed term and total cost as well as the monthly payment.

Check the support after signup

• Who answers questions about statements and balances?
• How will you receive your proposal and any court or tribunal order?
• Who distributes the monthly payment, and how do you check allocations?
• What should you do if your income changes or a payment becomes difficult?
• How do you raise a complaint if the matter is not resolved?
• What must happen before you receive a clearance certificate?

Use reviews carefully

Read recent feedback as well as older reviews. Look for specific accounts of communication, fee explanations and support over time. A single happy customer cannot establish what your payments or outcome will be. DRC's review page links to original public feedback so you can read it in context.

Prepare your first conversation

Use the printable assessment checklist with DRC or another provider. Learn about the debt review process and the ongoing work involved in debt counselling. Bring urgent legal notices to a qualified adviser promptly.

Source

The NCR advises consumers to verify the individual counsellor's registration and keep their contact and process documents.