Debt Counselling & Consumer Credit Protection in South Africa

The National Credit Adviser (NCA) is South Africa's leading resource for consumer credit information and debt counselling guidance. We promote a fair and non-discriminatory marketplace for access to consumer credit, empowering South Africans with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions and protect their rights under the National Credit Act.

Whether you are struggling with debt, considering debt counselling (also known as debt review or debt rescue), or simply want to understand your consumer rights, our comprehensive resources will guide you through every step of the process.

How the National Credit Act Protects You

The National Credit Act (NCA) was introduced in South Africa to create a fair, transparent, and accessible credit market. It regulates how credit providers lend money, ensures consumers are treated fairly, and provides mechanisms for debt relief when consumers become over-indebted.

Fair Market Practices

The NCA ensures that all credit providers treat consumers fairly and without discrimination. Credit providers must conduct proper affordability assessments before granting credit, and consumers have the right to receive clear information about the terms and costs of any credit agreement.

Protection Against Reckless Lending

Reckless lending occurs when a credit provider fails to conduct a proper affordability assessment, enters into an agreement with a consumer who does not understand the risks, or grants credit that causes the consumer to become over-indebted. The NCA makes reckless lending illegal and provides remedies for affected consumers.

Debt Counselling and Debt Review

Debt counselling (also called debt review) is a formal legal process established by the National Credit Act. It allows over-indebted consumers to have their debts restructured into affordable monthly payments. A registered debt counsellor negotiates with creditors on your behalf to reduce interest rates and extend repayment terms.

Benefits of Debt Counselling

If you are struggling to meet your monthly debt obligations, debt counselling offers several important benefits:

• Immediate legal protection from creditors taking action against you
• Reduced monthly payments through negotiated lower interest rates and extended terms
• Single consolidated payment distributed to all your creditors
• A clear timeline to becoming completely debt-free
• Professional guidance from NCR-registered debt counsellors

Debt counselling is different from debt consolidation loans because you do not take on new debt. Instead, your existing debts are restructured into a payment plan that you can afford, and a court order protects you throughout the process.

Your Consumer Credit Rights

Under the National Credit Act, every South African consumer has the right to apply for credit without discrimination, receive clear information about credit agreements, have a proper affordability assessment conducted, access their credit report, apply for debt counselling if over-indebted, and be protected from reckless lending practices.

Latest News & Updates

Stay informed about changes to credit legislation, industry developments, and consumer finance news in South Africa.

Know Your Rights. Protect Your Future.

The National Credit Act is designed to protect you. Whether you are applying for credit or struggling to repay it, we are here to provide the information you need. Explore our frequently asked questions or find a registered debt counsellor in your area today.