What Happens to Your Credit Score After Debt Review — And How to Fix It Fast

Feeling stuck after debt review?

You’ve paid off your debts. You’ve followed the rules. You were told debt review would help you “get back on track.”

But now, you’re out — and your credit score still looks broken.

Sound familiar?

You’re not alone. Many South Africans leave debt review and discover their credit score hasn’t bounced back.

In this article, we’ll explain exactly what happens to your credit report after debt review, and how you can fix it — fast.

What Happens to Your Credit Score After Debt Review?

Here’s what most people don’t tell you:

✅ Yes — debt review protects you while you repay debt.

❌ But it also puts a flag on your credit profile, warning all lenders that you’re under review.
This flag STAYS on your profile — even after you’ve paid off your debt — until it’s properly removed.

While under review, your credit score:

• Drops significantly
• Can’t grow (you’re not allowed to take on new credit)
• Reflects a “high-risk” status

Leaving Debt Review Doesn’t Mean Your Name Is Clean

Many people think exiting debt review will automatically improve their score.
But the truth is: your profile won’t improve until the debt review flag is removed and your payment history is rebuilt.

So if you’re done with your payments but haven’t received a clearance certificate (Form 19), your score is likely still stuck.

Step-by-Step: How to Fix Your Credit Score After Debt Review

Step 1: Make Sure Your Debts Are Fully Settled

Pay off all the accounts that were included in your debt review. This is the starting point.

Step 2: Get Paid-Up Letters from Your Creditors

Once a debt is paid, request a paid-up letter confirming it. These letters are essential for the next steps.

Step 3: Request Your Clearance Certificate (Form 19)

Your debt counsellor will verify that all debts are paid and issue a Form 19.
This is the certificate that tells credit bureaus: “This person is no longer under debt review.”

Step 4: Credit Bureaus Update Your Profile

Form 19 is sent to major bureaus like TransUnion and Experian. They’ll remove the debt review flag within 21 business days.

⏳ Be patient — it can take up to 3 weeks. But if it takes longer, follow up!

Step 5: Check Your Credit Report

After 3 weeks, pull your credit report again to confirm that:

• The debt review status is gone
• Your paid accounts are marked correctly
• No errors are dragging down your score

If there’s a mistake? Dispute it. You have every right.

Step 6: Start Rebuilding Your Score

Now it’s time to move forward.

Here’s how:

• Open a low-limit store or retail account
• Pay on time, every time
• Keep your credit use low
• Don’t apply for too much at once
• Monitor your score every few months

Consistency is what matters most now.

💡 Pro Tip from CDM:

Want a faster boost? Try applying for a credit builder product — like a secured credit card or small account you can manage easily. These tools are designed to improve your score with low risk.

🛑 Don’t Skip These Mistakes:

Avoid these common errors:

• Not checking if your flag was actually removed
• Assuming “time will fix it” (it won’t)
• Applying for too much credit too soon
• Ignoring payment dates

🧠 Final Thoughts

Debt review was the first step. Fixing your credit score is the next one.

At Consumer Debt Management, we don’t just help you exit debt review — we help you rebuild and recover with a clean profile and a strong score.

We’ve helped thousands of South Africans clear their names and start fresh — now it’s your turn.

Ready to Rebuild Your Credit?

Let’s clean your name, boost your score, and open new doors for 2025.
📲 Send us a message or drop your number and we’ll help you take the next step — fast.

Your Credit. Restored. Your Life. Reimagined.