Question 1

How do I know if I qualify to exit debt review in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

You qualify if all your debt review accounts have been paid up (paid-up pathway), or you can prove you are no longer over-indebted (early exit). Assessment available.

Question 2

How long does debt review removal take?

Accepted Answer

Typically 2 to 4 months for the paid-up pathway and 3 to 6 months for early exit applications.

Question 3

What is a Section 71 clearance certificate?

Accepted Answer

The official document under Section 71 of the National Credit Act confirming you have exited debt review. We send it to all four credit bureaus.

Question 4

Can I exit debt review if I still owe money?

Accepted Answer

Yes, via the early exit (rescission) pathway, if you can prove affordability without debt review.

Question 5

Will banks see my debt review history after removal?

Accepted Answer

Once your record is updated, the debt review flag is removed. Some accounts may still show payment history but the debt review status is cleared.

Question 6

How much does debt review removal cost?

Accepted Answer

We quote a fixed price upfront after your assessment. No hidden fees.

Question 7

Can I apply for credit while under debt review?

Accepted Answer

No. While under debt review you cannot apply for new credit until you have exited and received your clearance certificate.

Question 8

Can a judgment be removed from my credit record in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Default judgments can be rescinded by the court and removed from your credit bureau records.

Question 9

How long does judgment removal take?

Accepted Answer

Typically 6 to 10 weeks from start to finish.

Question 10

What is rescission of judgment?

Accepted Answer

A court application to set aside a default judgment, usually on grounds of payment, incorrect service, or procedural error.

Question 11

Will the judgment show after removal?

Accepted Answer

No. Once rescinded and all four bureaus are notified, the listing is removed from your credit record.

Question 12

How much does judgment removal cost?

Accepted Answer

Fixed quote upfront during your assessment, no surprise fees.

Question 13

How long does bad credit last on your record in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Most negative listings last 3 to 5 years. Judgments can stay up to 5 years. Many can be removed earlier via dispute.

Question 14

How do I dispute incorrect information on my credit report?

Accepted Answer

Submit a dispute with supporting evidence to the bureau. They have 20 business days to respond. We handle this at all four bureaus.

Question 15

How fast can I improve my credit score?

Accepted Answer

Most clients see meaningful improvements within 2 to 4 months.

Question 16

What credit score do I need to qualify for a home loan in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Major banks prefer scores above 640 for bond approval. The best rates go to scores above 700.

Question 17

How do I get a free credit report in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Each major bureau (TransUnion, Experian, XDS, Compuscan) provides one free credit report per year by law.

Question 18

What is credit coaching and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

A personalised one-on-one programme teaching you how credit works, how to build it, and how to protect it long-term.

Question 19

How many sessions do I need?

Accepted Answer

Most clients see strong results with 3 to 6 sessions over 2 to 3 months.

Question 20

Can credit coaching be done remotely?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sessions are available via WhatsApp, Zoom or phone, nationwide across South Africa.

Question 21

Can credit coaching help me qualify for a home loan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we coach you on exactly what lenders look for and how to position your profile.

Question 22

Is NovaCredit Consulting compliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We operate fully within the National Credit Act and all relevant South African consumer credit legislation.

Question 23

Do you serve clients outside of Cape Town or Johannesburg?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we serve clients nationwide and help people in every province.

Question 24

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Contact us via WhatsApp, email, or the contact form. We respond within 2 hours during business hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Debt Review Removal

Judgment Removal

Credit Repair

Credit Coaching

General

Still Have Questions?