When you’re under debt review, it can sometimes feel like your hands are tied. Bills don’t stop coming in, cars still break down, and kids still need school supplies — but your access to credit is frozen. Many South Africans in this position start asking the same question: “Can I get a payday loan while under debt review?”
It’s a fair question, especially when you just need a small amount to get through the month. In this guide, we’ll unpack exactly what being under debt review means, whether payday loans are an option, and what real, legal alternatives are available to help you get through financial tight spots — without making things worse.
Understanding Debt Review in South Africa
Debt review — sometimes called debt counselling — is a lifeline for people struggling to keep up with their monthly debt payments. Introduced under the National Credit Act (NCA), it gives you legal protection from creditors and helps you pay back what you owe in a structured, affordable way.
When you enter debt review:
- All your current credit agreements are combined into a single, reduced repayment plan.
- Credit bureaus are notified that you’re under review.
- You’re not allowed to take on new debt until your existing debt is settled.
It’s a powerful system that protects you from losing your assets or being harassed by creditors — but it also means your credit options are paused for a while.
Can You Get a Payday Loan While Under Debt Review?
Here’s the simple truth: no, you can’t get a payday loan while you’re under debt review.
The law in South Africa is very clear about this. Registered lenders are not allowed to issue new loans to anyone currently under debt review. This is meant to protect you — because taking on new debt while you’re already in a repayment plan can easily undo all your progress.
But before you lose hope, remember: being under debt review doesn’t mean you’re out of options. There are safe, legal, and practical ways to handle a cash shortage without breaking the rules.
What to Do When You Need Cash During Debt Review
If you’re facing an emergency — maybe an unexpected medical bill, or you need to fix your car so you can get to work — there are a few smart steps you can take.
1. Talk to Your Debt Counsellor
Your debt counsellor isn’t just there to collect payments; they’re there to help. If something changes in your financial situation, they can request a short-term adjustment to your repayment plan or advise you on temporary relief options.
2. Ask About a Salary Advance
Many employers in South Africa allow workers to get a portion of their salary early, especially if it’s a genuine emergency. It’s not a loan — just an advance on the money you’ve already earned — and it won’t affect your credit record.
3. Reach Out to Family or Friends
While it’s never easy to ask, borrowing a small amount from someone you trust can be far safer than turning to an unregistered lender. Be clear about when and how you’ll pay it back to avoid misunderstandings.
4. Look for Community Support or Financial Assistance
Some community organisations and NGOs provide emergency support grants or microloans for people under financial stress. Always make sure they’re recognised and operate legally.
5. Boost Your Income if You Can
Even a small side hustle can make a big difference. Many South Africans take on weekend or online jobs to earn a bit extra while under debt review. It’s not easy, but it helps build a cushion for unexpected expenses.
Why You Should Avoid Unregistered or Illegal Lenders
If you’ve ever seen ads promising “loans for people under debt review — no questions asked”, beware. These are usually loan sharks or unregistered lenders, and borrowing from them can lead to real trouble.
They often:
- Charge shockingly high interest rates.
- Keep your bank card or ID as “security.”
- Use threats or harassment to collect payments.
Not only is this illegal, but it can also leave you in a worse position than before. The safest thing you can do is stay away from any lender that isn’t registered with the National Credit Regulator (NCR).
If you’re unsure whether a lender is legitimate, you can check the NCR’s website — or visit InstantFund.co.za, which connects you only to verified, trusted financial partners.
How InstantFund.co.za Can Help
While InstantFund.co.za doesn’t offer payday loans to people under debt review, it can still be a valuable resource. The platform focuses on helping South Africans understand their options and make smarter financial choices — especially when credit access is limited.
Here’s what you’ll find:
✅ Guides and Articles: Honest information about managing money, rebuilding credit, and avoiding scams.
✅ Trusted Lender Network: Connections only to NCR-registered and responsible lenders.
✅ Financial Education: Practical tips for budgeting, saving, and planning for the future.
InstantFund is built to empower you — not trap you in more debt.
Tips to Stay Financially Stable During Debt Review
Here are a few habits that can make your debt review journey smoother and more successful:
- Stick to a Budget: Track every expense and prioritise essentials like food, transport, and utilities.
- Cut Back on Non-Essentials: Streaming subscriptions, dining out, or impulse shopping can wait.
- Start an Emergency Fund: Even saving R100 a month helps create a safety net over time.
- Stay in Touch with Your Counsellor: They can help if you’re struggling with payments.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Every debt you pay off brings you one step closer to financial freedom.
Debt review is not a punishment — it’s a fresh start. The goal is to help you regain control and rebuild your credit profile over time.
What Happens Once You Finish Debt Review?
When you complete the process, your debt counsellor issues a clearance certificate, confirming you’ve settled your obligations. Your credit profile is updated, and you’ll once again be eligible to apply for credit.
At that point, you can explore small, short-term options — such as payday loans — from registered South African lenders through platforms like InstantFund.co.za.
The key difference this time is that you’ll be in control, with a clean slate and better money habits
Being under debt review doesn’t mean you’re out of options — it means you’re taking the right steps to fix your finances. While payday loans aren’t available during this period, you can still manage emergencies responsibly and stay on track toward becoming debt-free.
Remember, the goal of debt review is not to restrict you forever, but to help you rebuild your financial future. With patience, discipline, and guidance from InstantFund.co.za, you can overcome this stage and come out stronger — ready to live a debt-free, confident life.
