Straight talk on borrowing in South Africa
Plain-English guides to loans, credit and your rights, so you know the facts before you borrow.
Taking multiple loans at once, sometimes called loan stacking, is risky because each repayment reduces what is left for the next month.
After a loan declined message, ask the lender for the reason, then check whether it was affordability, verification or your credit record.
To write a will in South Africa that is valid, put it in writing and sign it at the end in front of two or more competent witnesses who are present at the same time and also sign.
To claim UIF, gather your ID, the UI-19 form from your employer, the UI-2.8 banking form and proof that you registered as a work seeker, then apply through uFiling or at a labour centre.
Since 1 September 2024 the two-pot retirement system splits new contributions into a savings component (about one-third) and a retirement component (about two-thirds, locked until retirement).
A loan shark lends at extreme cost, often without registration, and uses pressure or threats to collect.
A tax-free savings account lets you earn interest, dividends and growth without paying tax on them.
Why these guides are different
Grounded in SA credit law
Costs, rights and rules are explained in line with the National Credit Act, with official sources linked.
Plain-English only
Short sentences, real rand examples and no jargon you need a dictionary for.
No hype, no fake promises
We never promise guaranteed approval or "no credit check" loans. Every lender must check affordability.
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