How Much Does Debt Review Cost? | When Will You Be Free?

Find out about debt review costs in South Africa, including NCR-approved fees, duration, and clearance details. Learn how CureDebt helps you regain control and financial freedom.

Understanding Debt Review in South Africa
If your monthly repayments are out of control, debt review, also known as debt counselling, could mean the road to financial relief.

It’s a regulated process under the National Credit Act (NCA), monitored by the National Credit Regulator (NCR), ensuring your rights as a consumer are protected.

So, What Is the Real Debt Review Cost?
When people first consider debt review, they often ask:  “How much does debt review really cost?”
While every case is unique, all registered counsellors in South Africa must follow NCR-approved fee guidelines. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Frequently Asked Questions About Debt Review

1. Do I have to pay anything upfront to start Debt Review?
No. You don’t pay any fees upfront. All costs are included in your monthly repayment. Your first and second payments usually go toward the debt counselling and legal fees. After that, your money goes directly toward settling your debt.

2. How much does debt review cost?
The cost depends on how much debt you have, but fees are regulated by the National Credit Regulator (NCR) ind include the following:

- A one-off application fee 
- A restructuring fee 
- Legal fees 
- A monthly aftercare fee 
- A small distribution fee per creditor

Your debt counsellor will explain all fees clearly before you sign anything.

3. How long will I be under debt review?
Most people stay under debt review for 3 to 5 years, depending on how much they owe and what they can afford to pay each month. This period will be extended should the debt not be settled within the 5-year period. 

4. Will my creditors still contact me?
No. Once you’re under debt review and your plan is in place, your creditors must stop calling or threatening legal action. Your debt counsellor will handle all communication with them.

5. Can I still get credit while under debt review?
No. While you’re under debt review, you can’t take on new credit. This is to protect you from falling deeper into debt. Once you’ve completed the process and received a clearance certificate, you can apply for credit again.

6. What happens if I miss a payment?
Missing a payment can put your debt review at risk. Your creditors may cancel the agreement and take legal action. If you’re struggling, speak to your debt counsellor immediately. They may be able to adjust your plan.

7. How do I know if my debt counsellor is legit?
Always check that your debt counsellor is registered with the NCR. You can verify this on the [NCR website].

8. Where can I get help or apply for debt review?
You can contact CureDebt for a free, no-obligation assessment. We’ll help you understand your options and guide you every step of the way.

How Long Does Debt Review Last?
The debt review process usually takes between 36 and 60 months (3–5 years), but that depends on your income, debt amount, and how consistent your repayments are.

Here’s what happens along the way:
1. Your counsellor negotiates reduced interest rates and payment terms.
2. You make one affordable monthly payment that’s distributed to all creditors.
3. You’re legally protected from harassment or repossession while under review.
4. You complete your plan, and your counsellor issues a Form 19 Clearance Certificate.

Once the clearance certificate is issued, credit bureaus remove your “under debt review” notice.  This typically takes approximately 21 - 25 work days. 

Is the Cost for the Debt Review Process worth paying, and why?
Yes, debt review has costs, but it’s often the most affordable and protective way to fix your finances. Here’s why it’s worth it:

✅ Interest rates are reduced
✅ You make one manageable payment
✅ You’re protected by law
✅ You regain control and peace of mind

Instead of sinking deeper into debt, you’re paying it off responsibly — with professional help and government regulation backing you up.

When Will You Be Debt-Free and Free from Debt Review?
Once you’ve completed your repayments and your debts are settled, your counsellor will issue a clearance certificate.

From there, your credit report is updated, and you can start fresh. Free from debt review and ready to rebuild your credit score.

Most South Africans complete their debt review within 3–5 years, but early settlements or lump-sum payments can shorten that period.

✅ Ready to Take Control?
Debt review isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning. CureDebt offers:
• Free, confidential assessments
• Legally compliant solutions
• Compassionate, bilingual support
• Proven results backed by client testimonials
• No Adverse Listings against your Credit Profile for only enquiring about the Debt Review Process.

📞 Request your free consultation today

Ready to take the first step?

Visit CureDebt’s homepage or schedule a free consultation today.

We at CureDebt sourced the best legal minds in the country to assist our client in this endeavour. We have established Debt Solutions Experts (business & personal) on board that work hand in hand with us to ensure success and stop debt. We can help free you from the debt trap!

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CureDebt your ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR DEBT RELIEF SOLUTIONS and debt rehabilitation in South Africa. If we cannot help you no one can.

You shouldn’t have to bear the burden of over-indebtedness just because of circumstances beyond your control. And even if there were some mistakes along the way, remember, it’s okay to let go of that guilt! You deserve to move forward without punishing yourself for the past. It's time to level up and embrace a debt-free lifestyle! Let's make it happen today!

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