Is saving only for rich people?

No. Saving is for everyone. You can start with R50/week and build momentum. Small consistent deposits add up quickly — R50/week becomes R2,600/year, which can cover emergencies or build toward goals.

What exactly is debt review?

Debt review is a formal process under South African law where a registered debt counsellor helps over-indebted individuals restructure their debts into affordable repayments. It protects you from legal action and can reduce monthly payments by up to 40%.

Can I rebuild my credit score after debt?

Yes. Credit repair is possible. After debt review, paying on time, reducing debt, and addressing disputes improves your score gradually. Most people see improvements within 12-24 months of consistent payments.

Is financial education really important?

Absolutely. Understanding money — budgeting, saving, debt, credit — changes outcomes. Most financial stress comes from not knowing options. Education removes shame and builds confidence.

How does an interest calculator help?

An interest calculator shows you exactly how much debt grows over time. It demonstrates the cost of delay and helps you understand why paying extra on principal saves thousands.

What does debt review cost in South Africa? Fees explained

How much does debt review cost in South Africa? Here's the full breakdown, rand by rand.

Question: How much does debt review cost in South Africa?

Let's talk about one of the questions people are often too nervous to ask: "How much is this actually going to cost me?" You have a right to know. The NCR has published debt counselling fee guidelines, and consumers should receive a written breakdown of the costs. The NCR's 2018 fee structure provides for the following key fees:

1. Application fee

The NCR guideline lists an application fee of R50 excluding VAT.

2. Administration fee

The 2018 guideline provides for an administration fee of R300 excluding VAT.

3. Restructuring fee

For a single applicant, the restructuring fee is the lesser of the applicable distributable amount/first instalment and the maximum fee of R8 000 excluding VAT. For certain joint applications, the maximum is R9 000 excluding VAT.

4. After-care fee

The NCR fee guidelines provide for an after-care fee based on the monthly distributable amount, subject to the applicable maximum. The 2018 guideline provides for 5% for the first 24 months, capped at R400 excluding VAT, and thereafter 3%, also subject to the R400 cap.

5. Legal costs

There can also be legal costs connected with obtaining the necessary order, depending on how the matter is resolved. These costs should be explained to you.

Here's the most important part: ask for the full fee breakdown before you sign.

The NCR specifically states that consumers have the right to know the full cost of debt counselling and receive the breakdown in writing. And don't be afraid to ask: "What am I paying for?" "When is it payable?" "Is VAT included?" "Are there legal costs?" "What happens if my application is rejected?" A good debt counsellor should be able to explain these things clearly.

One important note about fees

The NCR has been reviewing debt counselling fee guidelines, so consumers should always confirm the current applicable fee structure and written quotation with their registered debt counsellor before signing. An NCR circular from October 2024 confirms that the fee-guideline review process was underway.

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📧 info@dcsam.co.za
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You shouldn't have to be afraid to ask what you're paying for. Financial help should come with financial clarity.