Understanding Debt Review Fees: What You’ll Actually Pay in South Africa

If you've been drowning in debt and considering debt review as a way out, you're probably wondering: "How much is this actually going to cost me?" Good question. There are a few standard fees involved – and it's super important to understand each of them upfront so you’re not caught off guard.

Let’s break it down in plain terms – what you’ll really pay when you go under debt review in South Africa, using current guidelines from the National Credit Regulator (NCR).

Breaking Down the Debt Review Fees

• Application Fee – R50
  This one's really just a small cost to get you started. When you apply for debt review, you’ll pay an upfront application fee of R50. This covers the basic administrative work to open your file.


• Assessment Fee – R300
  Before going ahead, a debt counsellor will assess your financial situation to see if debt review is even the right step for you. That assessment costs R300.


• Restructuring Fee – Up to R8,000 (Single) or R9,000 (Joint)
  If you decide to go through with a debt review, you'll be charged a restructuring fee. This is based on your distribution amount—basically, your monthly debt instalment under the new plan.
  • The fee is capped at R8,000 for individuals (single applications).
  • For joint or dual applications (like if you're married in community of property), the fee can go up to R9,000.
  • But remember: it's either one month’s installment or the max above—whichever is less.


• Legal Fees – R2,000 to R7,000+
  Your debt review has to go to court. That’s what protects you legally from creditors bugging you. These are the fees paid to attorneys to handle the court process:
  • These legal fees are NOT regulated by the NCR.
  • At Debt Review Centre, we charge between R2,000 and R7,000 depending on your unique case and the size of your restructuring.


• Monthly Aftercare Fee – 5% of Payment (Max R450)
  Staying in the program means your debt counsellor has to regularly manage your account. That’s where the monthly aftercare fee comes in.
  • You’ll be charged 5% of your monthly debt installment.
  • There’s a cap: you’ll never pay more than R450 per month.
  • This fee keeps things like updates to your plan, communication with creditors, and follow-up going smoothly.

Important Note: All these fees are excluding VAT. And yep, they’re all regulated by the NCR except for the legal ones.

The Debt Review Process in a Nutshell

In case you’re still getting a feel for how this all works, here’s a brief overview of what the full journey looks like:

• Step 1: Apply – Fill in a quick form, sign consent documents and pay the R50 fee.
• Step 2: Assessment – Pay the R300 assessment fee. Your finances are evaluated to decide if debt review fits.
• Step 3: Debt Restructuring – Get a brand new repayment plan based on what you can afford.
• Step 4: Court Order – Legal professionals file on your behalf. Once approved by the court, you're legally protected from creditors.
• Step 5: Monthly Payments + Aftercare – You make one consolidated payment every month. Your debt counsellor distributes it to your creditors. Monthly aftercare fees apply.

What Role Does the National Credit Regulator (NCR) Play?

The NCR makes sure debt counsellors stick to the rules—including regulating most of the fees we’ve just discussed.

Here’s what that means for you:

• Transparency – You’ll always know what you’re paying, and why.
• Protection – NCR regulations are there to ensure you aren’t taken advantage of.
• Standard Pricing – As long as your debt counsellor sticks to the rules, fees will generally be in the same ballpark, regardless of where you go.

Things to Think About Before Starting Debt Review

✅ Choose the Right Debt Counsellor

• Make sure they're NCR-registered.
• Ask for a breakdown of fees before you start.
• Check online reviews or referrals — working with someone trustworthy can save you tons of stress.

✅ Understand What You're Committing To

• Debt review is a long-term journey, usually lasting a few years.
• Your access to new credit is restricted during this time.
• But in return, you’re protected from legal action and threatening calls.

✅ Get Yourself Into a Healthy Money Mindset

• This isn’t just a repayment plan—it’s a lifestyle shift.
• Learn to budget, save, and change spending habits so you don’t need debt review again.

In Closing

Debt review isn’t free—but it’s a powerful way to take control again. You’ll need to cover a few fees, but they’re manageable and upfront. Most importantly, debt review gives you legal protection, less stress, and a shot at financial freedom.

If you're ready to chat about your options or want more detail about the process, our certified team at Debt Review Centre is here to help. You're not alone, and we’ve helped thousands of South Africans walk this path toward debt freedom.

👉 Click here for a free, no-obligation debt assessment.

Looking for more info on debt review or how to navigate tough financial times? Check out our other helpful post: What Happens If I Can't Pay My Debt Review Installment?

Stay informed, stay empowered. 💪