5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR LIFE
E XCE LL ENCE IS D OIN G ORD IN A R Y THING S
E XT R AO RD I N A RI LY W E L L
– John W. Gardner
CREDIT PROTECTION
CREDIT PROTECTION
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The following financial obligations or debt can be covered on the ONE Credit Protection Policy:
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For further information please speak to your Broker, Debt Counsellor or alternatively contact your regional ONE office.
• Home Loans
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0861 266 562 admin.debt@one.za.com Terms and Conditions Apply
For further information please speak to your Broker, Debt Counsellor or alternatively contact your regional ONE office.
FROM THE EDITOR
I recently got to attend the annual Debt Counsellors Association of South Africa conference in Gauteng. Can you imagine? 200 Debt Counsellors all yakking on and on about their favourite topic: debt review.
What I noticed this year was that while everyone was talking about how nice it would be to get more clients to help (obviously), there was little negativity about the debt review process this year.
All the bad vibes were reserved for those trying to scam people into falling for “get out of debt review” cons. But no one had negative things to say about any of the credit providers, no one was moaning about how the Regulator was not doing this or that, no one was bemoaning particular courts making life difficult (ok there is that one court that recently started asking consumers to come in for the matters again…but other than that). In fact, the tone of most conversations was generally very positive.
And a positive mindset can go a long way. When you feel negative, then every little thing becomes a mountain. Even if you know that you are blowing it out of proportion it still doesn’t make you feel better. It just irritates you more.
However, when you feel positive then even bigger obstacles can fade into something manageable.
Mindset matters.
Now, you may not exactly be as excited about debt review as Debt Counsellors are. That would be totally unreasonable. But you may well be benefiting from the process every day.
You probably wake up each day and no one calls you to try collect on your debt. You check your bank balance and you have enough funds to go buy groceries. You check how much debt you have this month and it is a little less than last month instead of growing uncontrollably.
That’s pretty exciting in its own way.
And if you look at the big picture and see how you have taken back control of your finances and are starting to get debt free it can put you in a positive mindset. It can help you focus on the stuff that really matters like family, friends, financial security and being happy.
This month not only do we review what that conference was like (for those who missed it) but we also talk about skills that you learn during debt review that will help you for years to come.
These are life skills. An additional benefit of debt review that is not immediately obvious but will stand you in good stead.
We also catch up with financial news, get tips and advice and see how debt review is more than a process it is a mindset, a life style. So, we hope that you enjoy this issue as much as 200 debt nerds loved talking about debt review all day long.
With the Debt Review Awards coming up (the Oscars of Debt Review) we are all getting very excited about that was well. Another excuse to yak about debt. Yay!
We hope that you are relieved at living with less debt stress. We hope you are content with the progress you are slowly making every month. We hope that you have a positive mindset each day.
We hope that you are excited as you get closer and closer to your goal of becoming totally debt free.
DEBT REVIEW
If you hit hard times and are tempted to take on more debt to try get through, remember that you do not qualify.
This is not just because of your debt review status on the credit bureaus but also because credit providers can see that you do not have enough funds to pay all your debts (the original debt amounts) and cover your living expenses.
Talk to your Debt Counsellor for advice.
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5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR
TROUBLING
Debtfree Magazine considers its sources reliable and verifies as much information as possible. However, reporting inaccuracies can occur, consequently readers using this information do so at their own risk. Debtfree Magazine makes content available with the understanding that the publisher is not rendering legal services or financial advice. Although persons and companies mentioned herein are believed to be reputable, neither Debtfree Magazine nor any of its employees, sales executives or contributors accept any responsibility whatsoever for their activities. Debtfree Magazine contains material supplied to
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5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR LIFE
5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR LIFE
BIG DREAMS
When you were younger, you may have dreamed of being something cool like an astronaut or a zoo keeper.
We never dream about working hard all day just to put money into the credit card and hoping our debit orders won’t bounce.
Debt has a nasty way of creeping up on us and as we become more and more reliant on credit we lose our freedom. And life is full of unexpected expenses that can quickly put us in a deep debt hole that’s impossible to climb out of. It can happen so fast.
Thank goodness for debt review.
Debt review has 2 main benefits: First, we are able to afford the things we need each month. We can sleep easy knowing there is food in the fridge and electricity in the meter. Secondly, we slowly pay off our debts.
But debt review has many other less obvious benefits. Ones that will last much longer than the 3, 4 or 5 years that you are in the process. Let’s look at some of them.
5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR LIFE
NOT SPENDING MORE THAN YOU HAVE
It may sound silly but this is something 99.9% of all people do every day.
Before debt review you were probably guilty of this as well. You saw something you liked or thought you needed and you reached for the credit card.
Learning to distinguish between needs and wants is hard. We often feel we want or deserve…everything but our budget may disagree.
When you are in debt review this is something that you have to keep in mind all the time. And because you have no access to credit you cannot spend what you do not have.
Now, some people struggle to prioritise and moan that they need more credit and then foolishly try to leave debt review (instead of realising that they actually need to spend less or go without). They have not learned this skill yet. But for those who successfully make it through the process you will have this ability for the rest of your life.
LEARNING TO SAY NO
It is very hard to say no to ourselves. Self denial when you want something but can’t afford it is hard.
It can be even harder to learn to say no to those close to us:
The co-worker who asks you to sign surety for a debt. The relative who asks you for a loan. The family member who begs for the new gadget.
It is sometimes easier to say no to ourselves than them.
Learning to work within your budget is a vital life skill and learning to work out the long term consequences of your actions is closely related to saying no.
If you can learn to really take your time and analyse the situation and then point people to the correct resources then this is a life skill that will stand you in good stead.
For example, if someone wants a loan, there are thousands of credit providers out there. If someone is spending more than they have then they should go to a Debt Counsellor. And sometimes the kids just have to wait and save to get that fancy new gadget.
5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR LIFE
STICKING TO A GOAL
Many people life their entire life with debt stress.
They are stuck using credit to pay off credit or paying into their credit accounts just to get access to those same funds over and over. They just rinse and repeat each month with no goal of ever getting out of debt.
Many struggle to show any follow through. They quit as soon as things get tough. This could be at work or home even at school or with things to do with their health.
The ability to set a goal and then stick to it until it is achieved is a vital skill that the most successful people in the world all have in common. They are determined and will not be derailed. No matter what.
If you are struggling to stick with the debt review process but keep making those monthly payments then you are learning that vital skill. It will help you in many other parts of your life and can help propel you to the top at work, in your personal fitness goals, in your studies. Learn to be stubborn…but in a good way.
5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR LIFE
ASKING FOR HELP
We all have a measure of pride. Some people are full of themselves and on the other extreme some people feel they deserve the bad things they get in life. This is why it can be hard to ask someone else for help when times are tough.
Sometimes it is easier to ask, like if you have a pain and then go see a doctor. Other times it can be hard because it forces us to have some uncomfortable discussions or to spend some of our hard earned money to pay for advice.
The most successful people in the world surround themselves with smart people who can offer them the best advice. So, if they do it why shouldn’t we?
It may have been hard to go talk to a Debt Counsellor about your situation. Having done that at the start of the process you may still find it a little hard to reach out to them for help now (due to pride or fear of bothering them).
If you can change your mindset about asking for help, you will quickly learn that you will get the help you need if you ask for it.
You ask, you get, you succeed.
So, asking for help from people who know more about a particular topic is a skill that you will use throughout your life and will push you further than the overly proud people around you.
5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR LIFE
TALKING ABOUT PROBLEMS
When you are overwhelmed by debt it is weird how hard it is to be honest about it and tell your family and friends. You love them and trust them but you do not want them to think less of you. Even if they themselves have many of the same challenges (and let’s face it, everyone is dealing with debt).
The ability to open up and have an honest conversation about money, about relationships, about any important thing in your life is important.
If you are in debt review and have developed good habits like having a monthly financial chat with your family or partner then this is a skill you are refining.
They say a problem shared is a problem halved. This is true. Once the words are out your mouth it is like a weight off your shoulders. Now imaging being able to do that at home, at work, at school, in all of your close personal relationships. To share fully without being shy or holding back.
What a skill.
And this skill can help those around you to really understand you and help you work towards your goals.
For example, simply telling your close friends that you are on a tight budget and cannot spend like they do will help them avoid any uncomfortable situations (for them and for you).
It seems so obvious and easy but it is a skill that you have to learn. And being in debt review can help you learn and practice this skill.
5 DEBT REVIEW SKILLS YOU WILL USE FOR LIFE
MANY OTHER BENEFITS
Debt review has many other benefits that are not as obvious as just slowly paying off your debt. Being in debt review can help you develop a wide range of skills. And these life skills will help you make a success of your life long after your debts are all paid up.
But to develop and refine these skills you have to push through the hard parts of the debt review process. You have to persist where others fail.
You can learn to distinguish needs from wants and stick within a budget, you can learn to value your personal financial wellbeing and say no to others, you can learn to open up to others discussing serious problems and even asking for help when needed. But you can only do that if you stick with the process.
So, if you feel things are getting tough then use one of these life skills and reach out to your Debt Counsellor. They want to help you succeed and they want to help you develop these valuable skills. Skills that you can use for life.
WATCH WHAT YOU EAT
LESS FOR MORE WATCH
WHAT YOU EAT...
We all know that food prices go up over time. It seems that whenever you go to the store you come back with less than before.
This is why it is important to monitor your food budget and spending while in debt review. Especially if you have not received an increase for a while.
Where necessary you may need to adjust your eating habits to cut down on more expensive types of meals.
It can also help to be more active in comparing prices for items at different stores. A quick look on shopping apps or stores websites can help you figure out if an item might be cheaper elsewhere.
Shopping in advance rather than on the day you might need an item can also help reduce the urge to pay more to get something now. You can rather get it elsewhere for cheaper later.
So, shop smart and keep an eye on that food budget.
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DRASTIC MEASURES
LESS FOR MORE DRASTIC MEASURES...
When we face hard times financially, we know we should cut our spending and maybe you already have.
It can also be hard to know how big a change we need to make. Often, we make some smaller changes that seem reasonable but still we don’t have enough to make ends meet.
If you are facing a sudden negative change in your finances, with little hope of things getting better soon, then you should consider making more drastic changes to match the situation.
• Can you move into a family members back room or stay with a friend while you rent out your place?
• Can you sell some of your assets to make ends meet?
• Can you start a lift club to work or school?
• Can someone else in the family take on small jobs to earn more?
DRASTIC MEASURES...
TIME FOR A
CHANGE
You may need to make several changes all at once and admittedly that’s hard. Still, you may only need to make them for a short time before things get back to normal.
And the truth is that anyone can face a sudden financial crisis. It can be because of lower income or higher expenses.
It can even happen while a person is in debt review. Rather than drop out of the process and lose all the progress you have made (and often end up in a much worse financial position) brainstorm ideas with your Debt Counsellor.
You might be surprised how much you can save or earn if you get drastic.
Marius Mostert
DEBT REVIEW
DID YOU KNOW:
Credit providers are not allowed to offer credit to everyone. They have to ensure that the person asking for credit can actually pay back what they borrow.
This is why credit providers perform what is called an affordability assessment when you apply for credit.
TROUBLING TRANSFER TREND...
TROUBLING TRANSFER TREND
NOT SO SIMPLE
Consumers have the right to chose who will offer them services and in most cases if they are unhappy can transfer to other service providers. This is true of mobile networks, medical professionals and yes, even Debt Counsellors.
While not difficult to do the process is not simple or speedy one and can present some dangers to consumers. The process is best handled by both Debt Counsellors working well together.
TROUBLING TRANSFER TREND
BEWARE THE SCAMMERS
Recently there has been a boom in the “get out of debt review” business. Some people who offer the supposed service are simply scammers.
Some of these scammers operate from container shops with a false online presence on social media. They take the money and run off never to be contacted again.
Others are however more legitimate and offer the service exclusively to those who actually qualify (debt all paid up or never turned into a court order and not over indebted).
In between these two extremes is a so called rogue section of the market who both sign people up for debt review and then later offer to remove them from the process (through a related company).
Some unscrupulous debt review practices reach out to consumers who are already safe under debt review and offer them reduced instalments (which prolongs the debt repayment and may not even be possible).
TROUBLING TRANSFER TREND
SOME SCAMMY MESSAGES
What has recently been happening is that some such scammers, unscrupulous practices and undercutting poachers, coach consumers to send a request to the original Debt Counsellor pretending to cancel their services (not transfer).
Then after some time has lapsed the new practitioner gets the matter moved to their name on the NCR database (NCRDebtHelp). The messages may have wording such as:
I [so and so] wish to suspend debt review services due to being unsatisfied with your services and I need a 17.w withdrawal letter. I do not with to proceed with your services. Kindly suspend your services and send me proof of cancellation else I will take this matter to the NCR or I will escalate this to social media. I will get back to you if I ever need your help again. Please suspend with immediate effect, please issue the 17.w form.
Or it might look like this:
I request to be cancelled from debt review from [date]. I have chosen an alternative way to get my accounts paid up. Please cancel my name and provide me with confirmation that I have been cancelled. Please send me a form 17.w document. I am aware of the withdrawal guidelines from the NCR and I still want to terminate. Please cancel my active and future debt orders with immediate effect and I request that you send me proof that the payment distribution agent has cancelled the debit order.
Since many similar messages are being sent to Debt Counsellors and then these clients are later being transferred to particular practices on NCR Debt Help it seems that the consumers are coached in what to say/write.
If
someone approaches you and offers to get you a
“lower instalment” or to “get you out of debt review” please beware of scams.
Please also remember that if you drop out of debt review you can lose all the progress you have made in paying up your debt so far. Your assets may be in danger and many people who make such promises simply cannot deliver on them.
Rather talk to your Debt Counsellor about the reasons why you may want to make a change.
THE NDCA WEIGHS IN...
Debtfree Magazine approached the National Debt Counsellors Association which represents many National Debt Counsellor practices to ask them about this troubling trend. Here is what they told us:
‘At the NDCA, recently our members have seen a substantial increase of requests which we call "bypass transfer" requests. A transfer request is a legitimate request sent by a reputable company on behalf of a consumer, which results in an issuance of form 17.7 to formalise the transfer of a consumer from one debt counsellor to another. At NDCA, we are not against legitimate transfer requests.
A "bypass transfer" request is one invented by disreputable companies to circumvent existing processes as their transfer requests could not be validated by reputable companies such as our members.
These "bypass transfer" requests are thinly disguised transfer requests where disreputable compan(ies) promise consumers unrealistic outcomes ("we will reduce your debt review payments by half" or " we will get you removed from debt review") for a fee in the range of R6,000 to R10,000. In return consumers are asked to request a form 17.w from their current debt counsellor via using standard email templates provided by the disreputable companies.
TROUBLING TRANSFER TREND
The consumer requests are all identical, and it is clear the text is provided by the disreputable company(ies) whom they approached (we know so because in a few unfortunate cases consumers copied the entity who gave them the advice and provided the text).
In such a request, consumer says they know what a form 17.w entails and they plan to pay their debt on their own directly to credit providers even if they have a court order in place.
A few weeks (or even days) after 17.w is issued, then the disreputable company requests a transfer form 17.7 from the original debt counsellor.
Their thinking is that, while the original debt counsellor may decline a direct transfer request from them (as they are known to be disreputable) on behalf of a paying client, the original debt counsellor is more likely to accept the transfer of a non-paying client.
Ultimately, we believe these companies are meeting a demand in the marketplace created by the shortcoming of the NCA and regulations: the desire or need to borrow money (i.e. get debt review flag removed from credit bureau profile) while in debt counselling - because simply put, life happens – has never been adequately addressed by the completion/exit clauses in the NCA or its regulations.
Unfortunately, our members have seen numerous examples of clients who are subsequently "duped" where the unrealistic promises are not met, and they come back a few months later asking for reinstatement of our members’ services. Sadly, that consumer’s debt repayment
arrangements become much more difficult - if not impossible - to revive within debt counselling and as a result the consumer is in a worse off situation than before.
Companies who offer this “service” often advertise “debt review removal” on their websites and google. They also cold-call consumers as it appears they have access to up-to-date and detailed credit bureau information (who the debt counsellor is, whether the consumer is up to date with payments, whether they have a court/ consent order etc).
Our members are indicating that this type of “bypass transfer” (where consumer is asked to request a 17w form first before the disreputable company subsequently requesting an official 17.7 form) has increased over the last several months. Consumers are promised by the entities that either their debt repayments will be lowered or they can be “removed” from debt counselling should they chose to go in this direction.
Members report that around 30% of eventual transfers start out in this fashion, meaning consumers seemingly copy/pasting email text sent to them by these entities. While we understand that the consumer demand/need will not go away, we believe this needs to be addressed urgently with adjustments to be made to the NCA.’
This would be a much better world if more married couples were as deeply in love as they are in debt.
~ Earl Wilson
THE DEBT COUNSELLORS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA (DCASA) HELD THEIR ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN GAUTENG ON THE 23RD OF AUGUST 2024, AND IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL IN RECENT YEARS.
Held at the Birchwood Conference Centre, the event welcomed 200 guests who were treated to a day filled with industry insights, updates, and plenty of networking opportunities. Two of the large banks (ABSA & FNB) attended as did Consumer Friend and several industry service providers such as ONE, Bitech, Hyphen PDA, the NCT, DCCP, DC Partner PDA and Debtfree Magazine.
KICK OFF
The day kicked off with DCASA President Reinhard Pettenberger, who got straight to the point with updates on the NCR Task Team and the importance of tackling rogue elements in the industry. He also highlighted upcoming regional meetings and webinars designed to make life easier for all members.
Internationally renowned keynote speaker Gavin Sharples brought energy to the room, sharing how disruptions like Covid can drive change and innovation. His comparison of life and business to white water rafting left the audience with plenty to think about, emphasizing the importance of steering our own course through life’s challenges.
THE IMPACT OF POPIA
Advocate Colin Weapond from the Information Regulator followed with a detailed discussion on the impact of the Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPI) which has implications for the debt review industry. He highlighted the growing focus on data protection and hinted at upcoming guidance notes to clarify the Act’s application.
THE STATE OF THE ECONOMY
After a tea break, FNB Senior Economist Siphamandla Mkhwanazi provided an economic update, noting the growth of credit card debt among South Africans. Despite challenges, he remains optimistic about salary increases and potential rate cuts in the near future and says South Africans have less debt than people in many other countries.
THE STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
Timmy van de Grjip from the National Credit Regulator (NCR) addressed recent industry issues, including the rise in debt review removal scams. He also discussed the NCR’s ongoing efforts to update the Task Team and crack down on rogue Debt Counsellors.
The speeches wrapped up with thought-provoking discussions from former NCT Chairperson Diane Terblanche on the difference between debt counselling and debt review, and Reana Steyn from the National Financial Ombud Scheme (NFO), who shared exciting plans to simplify access to ombud assistance.
WRAPPING UP
An industry panel featuring experts from various organizations finished off the day, with attendees agreeing that this year’s conference was the best in recent memory. The well timed breaks with time to engage with creditors and service providers, valuable insights, and ample networking opportunities made it a day well spent for everyone involved.
DEBT REVIEW
AFFORDABILITY ASSESSMENTS
When you apply for credit the credit provider will ask you how much you earn (and ask for proof), they will ask how much you spend each month on living expenses (things like groceries and electricity) and they will ask you who else you owe money to each month (your other debts). They also draw a credit bureau report to check that you have given accurate information.
BREAKING NEWS
LOWER INFLATION POINTS TO COMING RATE CUT
Lower fuel prices and slowing in the increase in food prices is helping keep the inflation figures lower recently. The Rand has been doing well vs the US Dollar (based on several financial factors to do with their rates, employment and politics).
The SARB have been talking about targeting 4.5% inflation before they consider a Repo Rate cut for a very long time now. With the figure now officially sitting at 4.6% and with nearby countries like Namibia starting to make small cuts, things are looking promising for the first of several hoped for local Repo Rate cuts in the months ahead.
DOMESTIC WORKERS STILL EARN LESS THAN LEGAL MINIMUM
Despite government mandated minimum wage, nearly half of all domestic workers still earn less than the legal minimum.
Recent reports from SweepSouth show that most (98%) of domestic workers are women, and on average across the entire sector earn R33.35/hour. Unfortunately, almost half (46%) earn below the legal minimum. Employers in the Western Cape pay the most followed by Gauteng.
It is estimated that 60% come from Zimbabwe and around 40% from SA. Since Covid hit in 2020 employment numbers in this sector dropped by 161 000 workers across the country. There are currently around 850 000 domestic workers in SA.
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•Convenience – a single policy covers all your clients’ credit agreements
•Claiming process easy and effortless and facilitated by DCCP
•New loans can be included under this policy
FREE ACCESS TO NATIONAL PARKS IN SEPTEMBER
South Africans will be able to enter a wide range of famous National Parks during September this year. The idea is to allow locals to enjoy the natural wonder of the country at no charge.
The free access to the parks include:
• Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
• Addo Elephant National Park
• Agulhas National Park
• Augrabies Falls National Park
• Bontebok National Park
• Camdeboo National Park
• Garden Route National Park
• Golden Gate Highlands National Park
• Karoo National Park
• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
• Kruger National Park
• Mapungubwe National Park
• Marakele National Park
• Mokala National Park
• Mountain Zebra National Park
• Namaqua National Park
• Table Mountain National Park
• Tankwa Karoo National Park
• West Coast National Park
For more info head over to: https://www.sanparks.org/events/sa-national-parks-week-2024
STEP-BY-STEP DREX GUIDE
DREX simplifies the exchange of data and makes managing the debt review process less admin intensive.
The below links take you to step-by-step guides on how to use the DC Portal on DREX.
How to Register on the DC Portal
Introduction to the DC Portal
Accessing a Consumer's Profile
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The annual Debt Review Awards gala will be live streamed from the in-person venue in Cape Town on Friday the 18th of October 2024.
The results of the annual Debt Review Awards are based on an online industry peer review, for those who are registered with the National Credit Regulator (NCR). In the peer reviews participants get to rate the performance of their peers on the opposite side of the industry.
But what are the criterion used in the peer reviews?
Over the last two months we have looked at some criteria considered in regard to the start of the process and the middle of the debt review process.
This month let’s look at what is considered when looking at Debt Counsellors and credit providers with regard to the end of the process.
Credit Provider Criterion
• Issuing Paid Up Letters
• Updating Consumer Records
• Improvement since last year
• Ratings in regard to specific products (e.g. Home loans, Short Term Finance, VAF etc)
Debt Counsellor Criterion
• Updating credit providers in regard to legal matters
• Consumer Support
• Industry participation
• Updating the NCR/Credit Bureaux
Note: The wording or phrasing on the questions that cover these criteria may shift or change slightly to help balance the results, but the core criterion are the same.
These are some of the criteria that cover the end of the process. Be sure to check out next months issue where we preview what will be happening during the Debt Review Awards (and the ancillary events).
If you are registered with the NCR and would like to participate in the annual Peer Reviews each year you can sign up here:
https://bit.ly/3Ml0CxN
Competition Winner
Debtfree has partnered up with Debt Court Pro to provide one reader with the chance to attend a 2 day course valued at R3000!
To enter the competition readers had to email in with information about the course and the winner has now been selected from among those who did their homework and got the question right.
The Course
The Debt Court Pro course is designed to assist Debt Counsellors with a general understanding of the Motion Court procedure and format as well as general information on what appearing at the Magistrate’s Court entails.
And The Winner is:
KHANYISILE QIBI
Congratulations!!
Debtfree will contact Khanyisile about the prize and Debt Court Pro will make arrangements. For those who entered but did not win, don’t worry. They have something nice in mind for you as well. Keep an eye on that inbox.
Celebrating the Champions of Change
As we celebrate Women’s Month, we want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the incredible women in the debt review industry. Your dedication, passion, and relentless drive continue to inspire positive change and empower those around you. We honor the impact you make every day. Happy Womens month!
The Debt Review Awards 2024
As we honor these trailblazing women, we also look ahead to the Debt Review Awards 2024. This event is more than just recognition— it’s a celebration of the progress we’ve made together. At iPDA, we’re proud of the strides we’ve taken to enhance the debt review process, but we know we couldn’t have done it without your support.
Now, we need your vote to help us be recognized as the top Payment Distribution Agency (PDA).
PDAs are the backbone of the debt review process, ensuring that every payment is accurately collected, distributed, and reported on. With your help, we can continue to lead the industry to excellence.
Empower Your Business with Intuitive Front End
Are you tired of software that complicates? Your business deserves the best tools to succeed.
IFE is designed to adapt to you, making your day-to-day operations smoother and more efficient. Discover a software solution that truly understands and supports your business, empowering you to focus on what you do best—helping your clients achieve financial freedom.
Experience the power of our software solutions and how we can partner with you to optimize your debt counseling firm.
Learn more at www.ipda.co.za
www.allprodc.org facebook.com/groups/allprodc
Finwise is an all-inclusive Software System, designed for debt counsellors for professional and efficient Debt Management.
Finwise is a cloud-based system, and can be used on any mobile device, PC, or tablet with internet connectivity. The exceptional workflow and innovative task manager tools saves the user valuable time, through multiple consumer data reporting and easy management. Several integrations such as Legasys, iDOCS, Drex, facilitate effortless administering, and handling of multiple transactions and tasks within one system.
More Industry News Than Ever...
If you work in the debt review industry you may be hungry for news about finances, the local debt review industry and the DTI, NCR, CIF and NCT.
Why not sign up for the Debtfree Industry Newsletter?
One email a month with the latest financial local and international news about all the things that may impact on how you do debt review.
We’re
If you have excellent communication skills, empathy, and a desire to make a real impact, apply now! If you’ve always been that person who gets it done, we want to talk to you.
Location: N1 City, Goodwood, Cape Town
WE ARE HIRING!!!
Be part of South Africa’s Leading Debt Counselling Team and Take the Next Step in Your Career. Join Debt Rescue Today!
Why Join Our Team:
Are you passionate about making a real difference in people's lives? Do you have a drive for success and a talent for communication? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you.
We offer a lifeline to individuals struggling with debt. Our mission is simple: to provide compassionate, effective solutions that empower our clients to regain financial stability.
Who Are We Looking For:
• Individuals with a talent for sales and a track record of exceeding targets.
• Empathetic listeners who understand the importance of building relationships based on trust.
• Motivated self-starters ready to take initiative and drive their own success.
• Team players who value collaboration and are dedicated to collective achievement.
Your Role:
As a sales consultant with us, your role will be pivotal. You'll be the first point of contact for individuals seeking assistance, guiding them through their options and helping them see a way out of their financial distress.
Your ability to empathize, share knowledge, and empower will not only lead to sales success but will also make a real difference in people's lives.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're driven by success and the desire to help others, we want to hear from you.
Apply now to become part of the most respected debt review service in South Africa. Send your CV to cv@debtrescue.co.za today.
DEBT COUNSELLORS
NORTH WEST
NORTHERN CAPE
WESTERN CAPE
GAUTENG
LIMPOPO
FREE STATE
KWAZULU-NATAL
EASTERN CAPE
MPUMALANGA
www.debtbusters.co.za
info@debtbusters.co.za
NCRDC533
14th Floor, The Pinnacle
Cnr Strand & Burg St Cape Town
Tel: 086 111 6197
Fax: 021 425 6292
info@creditmatters.co.za
www.debtbusters.co.za
www.zerodebt.co.za
www.debtbusters.co.za
info@debtbusters.co.za
www.zerodebt.co.za
www.debt-therapy.co.za
www.debtbusters.co.za
info@debtbusters.co.za
One consolidated payment. Savings on interest rates. More cashflow. Let’s get it sorted! Debt doesn’t have to weigh you down. NCRDC2484 Credit Matters
South Africa’s Leading Debt Counsellors NCRDC533
14th Floor, The Pinnacle Cnr Strand & Burg St Cape Town Tel: 086 111 6197
Fax: 021 425 6292
info@creditmatters.co.za
Tel: 087 701 9665
Email: help@zerodebt.co.za
www.zerodebt.co.za
www.debtbusters.co.za
info@debtbusters.co.za
www.zerodebt.co.za
www.debtbusters.co.za
info@debtbusters.co.za
www.zerodebt.co.za
www.debtbusters.co.za
info@debtbusters.co.za
South Africa’s Leading Debt Counsellors NCRDC533
14th Floor, The Pinnacle Cnr Strand & Burg St Cape Town Tel: 086 111 6197 Fax: 021 425 6292 info@creditmatters.co.za
www.zerodebt.co.za Credit Matters
Tel: 087 701 9665 Email: help@zerodebt.co.za
www.debt-therapy.co.za
0872382280 enquiries@payplansolutions.co.za www.payplansolutions.co.za
LEGAL
Liddles & Associates
“If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.” - Tony Robbins
(T) +27 87 138 3275 (E) quintin@liddlesinc.com
www.liddlesinc.com
Steyn Coetzee Attorneys / Prokureurs
Adri de Bruyn 11 Market Street / Markstraat 11, Paarl, 7646
Tel: 021 872 1968
Fax: 021 872 2678 adri@steyncoetzee.co.za
RM Brown and Associates 16th Floor, The Pinnacle Cnr Strand & Burg St Cape Town
Tel: 021 202 1111, f: 021 425 0875
Email: roger@rmbrown.co.za
Jus�n �an Der Linde
1st Floor Icon House 24 Hans Strijdom Street Cape Town 8001
jus�n��dla�orneys.co.za
Assisting small to large debt counselling businesses with their legal applications on a National Scale.
We pride ourselves on personal attention and service excellence.
Levesh Govender Tel: 071 364 1475 eMail: levesh@lglaw.co.za
Effective Intelligence sardagh@e-intelligence.com
Fides Cloud Technologies craig@fidescloud.co.za
Finch Technologies chris@finchinvestments.co.za
I-Bureau Services abrie@ibureau.services
IDR South Africa shane@v-report.co.za
iFacts sonya@ifacts.co.za
Inoxico support@inoxico.com
Kudough Credit Solutions chrisjvr@kudough.co.za
Lexisnexis Risk Management kim.bastick@lexisnexis.co.za
Lightstone chrisb@lightstone.co.za
Loyal1 tshepiso@loyal1.co.za
Managed Integrity Evaluation
marelizeu@mie.co.za
Maris IT Development marius@marisit.co.za
National Validation Services info@nvs-sa.co.za
Octagon Business Solutions gregb@octogon.co.za
Omnisol Information Technology info@verifyid.co.za
Payprop Capital johette.smuts@payprop.co.za
PBSA seanb@PBSA.CO.ZA
Right Cover Online cto@rightcover.co.za
Searchworks 360 skumandan@searchworks360. co.za
Smart Information Bureau info@smartbureau.net
ThisisMe juan@thisisme.com
TPN Group michelle@tpn.co.za
Trans Africa Credit Bureau
clintonc@transafricacb.co.za
Transaction Capital Credit Health
DavidD1@tcriskservices.co.za
VeriCred Credit Bureau sumein@vccb.co.za
WeconnectU
johann@weconnectu.co.za
Zoia Consulting sipho@dots.africa
C O N T A C T D E T A I L S DEBT REVIEW NIMBLE GROUP
Dear Debt Counsellors,
This letter serves to communicate to the Credit industry to use the following contact details for the Nimble Group when processing Debt Review related applications, enquiries, queries and, complaints escalation process.
Kindly take note Nimble Group hereby consents to service all legal documents applicable to Debt review herein by way of email.
Email & Task Type
Forms 17 1 and 17 7
Forms 17 2, Proposal Summaries, Cascade plans & Court orders
Forms 17.2 Rejection, 17.W & Form 19
Forms 17 3, General queries, settlements, balance, refunds, statements, Paid up letter request & reckless lending allegations, payment allocation queries & Complaints
Contact Details
drcob@nimblegroup co za
drproposal@nimblegroup co za
drtermintation@nimblegroup.co.za
drqueries@nimblegroup co za
DEBT REVIEW INBOUND CONTACT NUMBERS:
+27 87 250 5533
+27 21 8300 711
DEBT REVIEW ENQUIRIES ESCALATION MANAGEMENT ORDER CONTACT DETAILS
Kindly note that escalations must only be done once you have sent your request to the above-mentioned contact email addresses and if your requests are out of SLA in lieu Debt Review forms response business days stipulated in the NCR Act
Kind Regards,
Denvor Rank
Operations Manager: Process Recoveries
1st line escalation
Aletta Tokollo Molelekeng
Debt Review: Team Manager
D: +27 11 285 7247
E: AlettaM@normanbissett co za
2nd line escalation
Denvor Rank
Operations Manager: Process Recoveries
O: +27 21 830 0750 (Ext 6062)
E: denvorr@nimblegroup co za
3rd Line escalation
Zivia Koff
Specialised Process Manager
D: +27 21 492 4554
E: ziviak@nimblegroup co za
We trust this communication finds you well and that it will improve our service to you
It is of utmost importance that debt review documentation is sent to the correct email address to ensure timeous feedback and action.
CAPITEC BANK CONTACT DETAILS
Further to the above, please ensure that only the channel email address applicable to the documents being submitted is used. Sending emails to multiple email addresses will result in a delay or even no feedback or action.
CAPITEC BANK ESCALATION CHANNELS
1 Jolene Pieters Team Leader: Debt Review (Court Orders/Forms/Inclusions) JolenePieters@capitecbank.co.za 2 Cindy Mauritz Manager: Debt Review CindyMauritz@capitecbank.co.za
3 Carolina Visser Manager: Process Recoveries CarolinaVisser@capitecbank.co.za Proposals
1 Meghan Bruiners Team Leader: (Proposals) MeghanBruiners@capitecbank.co.za
2 Cindy Mauritz Manager: Debt Review CindyMauritz@capitecbank.co.za
3 Carolina Visser Manager: Process Recoveries CarolinaVisser@capitecbank.co.za General Enquiries, Refund/cancellation requests , Termination queries, Updated COB’s, Payment queries
1 Nathan Slaverse Team Leader: Enquires Nathanslaverse@capitecbank.co.za 2 Carolina Visser Manager: Process Recoveries CarolinaVisser@capitecbank.co.za
1 Mfundo Xaba Officer: Market Conduct Oversight MfundoXaba@capitecbank.co.za
2 Dries Olivier Manager: Market Conduct and Oversight DriesOlivier@capitecbank.co.za
Reckless Lending Queries
1 Whitney Jardine Team Leader: Recoveries Risk Support WhitneyJardine@capitecbank.co.za
2 Zayaan Jurgens Manager: Recoveries Risk Support ZayaanJurgens@capitecbank.co.za
Credit insurance claims
1 Grant Griffith Jessica Rademeyer Kanyisa Mbiza Team Leader: Insurance Claims GrantGriffiths@capitecbank.co.za JessicaRademeyer@capitecbank.co.za KanyisaMbiza@capitecbank.co.za
2 Brigitte October Performance ManagerInsurance Claims BrigitteOctober@capitecbank.co.za
Telephonic queries lodged
1 Laetitia Pretorius Team Leader: CCS Queries LaetitiaPretorius@capitecbank.co.za
2 Tracey Govender Manager: Recoveries Administration TraceyGovender@capitecbank.co.za
Sincerely,
17.1, 17.2, Proposals, General correspondence: debtcounselling@africanbank.co.za
To register for Legal Web Access: lwac@africanbank.co.za
Reckless Lending investigations: RLA@africanbank.co.za
DETAILS COMING SOON For more
ESCALATION PROCESS
DC QUERY PROCESS
NEDBANK DRRS
Debt Counselling Query Resolution Contact Points and Escalation Process
Email submissions (Level1)
Email: DebtCounsellingQueries@nedbank.co.za
To be used as a first point of contact for all written communication
Call centre (Level 1: Alternative) Tel: 0860 109 279
To be used as a first point of contact for all telephonic communication
Attended to by Queries Specialist (Level 2: First Escalation) dcescalation1@nedbank.co.za
To be used only where no resolution is found from first point of contact after 5 business days
Attended to by Team Leader and Queries Specialist (Level 3: Second Escalation) dcescalation2@nedbank.co.za
To be used only where no resolution is found from the first escalation after 5 Business days
Attended to by Support and Escalation Manager (Level 4: Final escalation) nbdcescalations@nedbank.co.za
To be used only where no resolution is found from the second escalation after 5 Business days
proposals@consumerfriend.co.za