---
title: "FAQ"
description: "FAQ Home FAQ Frequently Asked Questions Everything you need to know about debt review, your rights, and what to expect from the process. General The Process Your Rights 01 What is Debt Review? Debt..."
url: https://vsdebtcounseling.co.za/faq/
date: 2026-04-23
modified: 2026-04-23
author: "admin"
type: page
lang: en
---

# FAQ

# FAQ

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Home

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**
FAQ

## Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about debt review, your rights, and what to expect from the process.

**General
The Process
Your Rights

01
What is Debt Review?

Debt review (also called debt counselling**) is a legal process under the National Credit Act that helps people who are **over-indebted** restructure their debt payments so they can afford them.

A registered debt counsellor:

- Reviews your finances

- Negotiates lower monthly payments with creditors

- Creates a structured repayment plan

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02
Who qualifies for Debt Review?

You may qualify if:

- You are struggling to pay your debts**

- Your **monthly expenses exceed your income**

- You want **legal protection from creditors**

You must have a **regular income** to make repayments.

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03
What does it mean to be over-indebted?

In terms of the National Credit Act, a consumer is over-indebted if their income is not enough to cover:

- Essential living expenses

- Current creditor payments

04
How long does Debt Review last?

Debt review continues until all included debts are paid off**. For many people it takes **3-5 years**, depending on:

- Total debt

- Income

- Negotiated repayment plan

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05
Can I exit debt review?

You exit when all debts are settled**. You will receive a **clearance certificate** upon exit, which removes the debt review flag from your credit profile.

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06
Does debt review affect my credit record?

Yes. A Debt Review flag** appears on your credit profile until you complete the program. Once complete and all debts are settled, your credit record will be cleared, giving you a fresh start.

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01
What happens to my car or home during debt review?

Your assets are protected under the National Credit Act** as long as no legal action has started before entering debt review.

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02
Can creditors take legal action during Debt Review?

Once the process begins and creditors are notified, they generally cannot take legal action** if:

- Your application is accepted

- You follow the repayment plan

**
03
Can I take new credit while under Debt Review?

No. While under debt review you cannot apply for new credit** until the process is completed.

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04
Is my repayment plan based on what I can afford?

Yes, your debt counsellor will create a single monthly repayment plan** that matches what you can realistically afford.

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01
Will creditors still contact me while I'm under debt review?

No, creditors must deal directly with your debt counsellor** once you are under debt review, protecting you from harassment.

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02
Can my interest rates be reduced in debt review?

Yes, interest rates on unsecured debts can be negotiated and significantly reduced, sometimes by up to 100%**.

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03
Do I have the right to choose my debt counsellor?

Yes, you have the right to choose any NCR-registered debt counsellor** you trust to handle your debt review.

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04
Will my credit record be cleared after debt review?

Once you've completed the process and paid your debts in full, your credit record will be cleared, giving you a fresh start**.

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05
Are my personal details kept confidential?

Absolutely. The debt review process is confidential** and you are legally protected from unfair treatment or threats.

## Get In touch

## Start today – book your obligation free virtual consultation

[

Apply Now

](https://vsdebtcounseling.co.za/contact-us/)

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