Switching Debt Counsellors? The 7-Day Rule and Required Documents
If you have decided to switch to a new debt counsellor, the transition should be swift. Under the National Credit Regulator's (NCR) Guideline 004/2026, strict timelines and documentation rules have been put in place to ensure your old counsellor does not drag their feet.
The 7-Day Timeframe
Strict Deadline: No transfer request is allowed to remain outstanding for longer than seven (7) business days, provided that the prescribed paperwork has been submitted.
Unreasonable Delays: Any delay beyond this period without a lawful reason is officially regarded as non-compliant.
What Documents are Needed?
To successfully process your transfer under NCR Circular 1 of 2021, the following specific documents must be provided to enable the continuation of your debt review:
A signed Power of Attorney from the requesting (receiving) debt counsellor.
A signed Form 17.7 from your existing debt counsellor.
A copy of your ID.
Note: A copy of the Form 17.7 must also be systematically sent out to all of your relevant credit providers.
Lawful vs. Unlawful Grounds for Delay
An existing debt counsellor is only permitted to refuse or delay a transfer request based on two exact grounds:
Outstanding Prescribed Paperwork: Strictly as required in applicable NCR Circulars and Guidelines.
Outstanding Fees: Legitimate fees currently due and payable for work actually completed.
No other grounds for delaying your transfer are permitted. If a counsellor denies your transfer over fees, they must provide a detailed invoice and actual evidence of work done to the new debt counsellor within two (2) business days. A PDA statement is explicitly not accepted as proof of work done.
Furthermore, under the Prescription Act 68 of 1969, debt counselling fees prescribe after three (3) years from the day they became due (provided no legal action was taken or debt acknowledged). This means expired fees can never be used to block your transfer.
Knowing your rights under the National Credit Act is the first step toward true financial freedom. Whether you want to transfer your debt review to a trusted counsellor, require assistance with credit clearance, or want to understand your credit score better, the team at My Credit Repair is here to help.
