Getting Started

Choosing a debt counsellor

It is easy to make application for debt review! The only difficulty is in finding a properly qualified debt counsellor. Unfortunately not all debt counsellors are equally qualified and some debt counsellors lack the skills or office infrastructure they should ideally have.

It is therefore important that having obtained the names of some debt counsellors in your area (ideally from the NCR website – www.ncr.org.za) you arrange to meet with them and see whether, or not, you believe they have the ability to assist you.

Factors to consider include whether the debt counsellor:

• has been in business for more than a year;
• has a financial background;
• has a legal background;
• is a member of any professional organisations, e.g. law society, SAICA, etc.
• has reasonable office and administration facilities;
• seems organised, busy and confident;
• has a good reputation;
• is honest, trustworthy and intelligent.

It is not necessary for a debt counsellor to be an attorney or chartered accountant but that would obviously be an advantage.

Gathering your financial information together

Once you have decided on your debt counsellor it is essential that you gather all your account statements, payslip, proof of expenses and other financial information together. Ask your debt counsellor what you need to bring to your first meeting with him / her.

Completing the Form 16

The Form 16 is more than an application form – it should look like a detailed financial review spreadsheet. This form must be completed by you, with the assistance of your debt counsellor. Once you have completed the Form 16, you must submit it, the application fee and all your financial documentation to your debt counsellor.

To find out more about debt review please click on the “Explanation” link to the left of the page.

To find out more about debt counselling please visit www.debtcounselling.co.za.