How to Remove a Debt Review Flag from Your Name in South Africa (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re stuck under a debt review flag and feel like your financial freedom is on pause — you’re not alone.
Many South Africans find themselves asking:

“I’ve paid my debt… so why is my name still flagged?”

The truth is: even when your debt is paid off, the debt review flag doesn’t just go away automatically.
But the good news? There’s a way out — and this guide will show you exactly how.

Let’s break it down in simple steps.

What Is a Debt Review Flag?

When you go under debt review, a flag is added to your credit profile. This tells lenders that you’re under a repayment plan and cannot take on new credit.

It’s meant to protect you while you pay off your debts — but once you’ve done that, the flag becomes a major obstacle.
You can’t apply for a car loan, bond, or even a cellphone contract until it’s removed.

Can You Remove the Flag Before Paying Off All Your Debt?

In most cases, you need to finish paying off all the debts included in your debt review first.
But there are two exceptions:

✅ 1. Court Application

If your financial situation has changed (e.g. you now earn more), you can apply to the court to declare that you’re no longer over-indebted. This requires legal proof and might involve a lawyer.

✅ 2. Rescission of Court Order

If a court order was issued when you started debt review, you can ask the court to cancel it — again, you’ll need to prove you can now manage your finances without help.

⚠️ These routes are possible, but they’re legal processes — so you’ll likely need a professional to assist.

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Remove the Debt Review Flag

Here’s what to do if you’ve already paid off your debts and want the flag gone:

📌 Step 1: Settle All Your Debts

Make sure every debt listed in your debt review has been paid in full.

📌 Step 2: Get Paid-Up Letters from Creditors

Ask each creditor to give you a paid-up letter confirming that your debt with them is settled. Keep these safe — you’ll need them.

📌 Step 3: Send the Letters to Your Debt Counsellor

Give all the paid-up letters to your debt counsellor. They’ll verify everything and move to the next step.

📌 Step 4: Get Your Clearance Certificate (Form 19)

Your debt counsellor will issue Form 19 — an official certificate that proves you’ve completed the debt review process.

📌 Step 5: Credit Bureaus Are Notified

Your counsellor sends Form 19 to the major credit bureaus (like TransUnion and Experian). They’ll begin the process of removing the debt review flag from your profile.

📌 Step 6: Double-Check Your Credit Report

In about 21 business days, pull your credit report to make sure the flag is gone. If it’s still there, contact the credit bureau or your counsellor to follow up

.

⏳ How Long Does It Take?

From the moment you receive your clearance certificate, it can take up to 21 working days for the credit bureaus to update your status.

👉 Tip: Check your credit report after 2–3 weeks to be sure everything went through.

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Final Thoughts

Removing your debt review flag is one of the most important steps toward getting your financial freedom back. It opens doors — to new opportunities, better credit, and a clean slate.

At Consumer Debt Management (CDM), we help South Africans like you remove debt review flags quickly and legally — without the confusion or stress.

Need Help?

If you’re not sure where to start or just want someone to handle it for you — we’ve got your back.
📩 Send us a message or drop your number and we’ll walk you through the best solution for your situation.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. For case-specific help, consult a registered debt counsellor or legal professional.