A Fin24 user wants to know how to get out of debt counselling. He writes:
I need to get out of debt counselling. Is it a correct procedure to negotiate directly with the bank, then give a 30-day notice to the debt counsellor once all has been agreed with the bank?
What is the cheaper way of paying the debts thereafter, i e debt consolidation or pay per account?
Nicky Campbell, consumer law expert and MD of the SA Law Centre, responds:
Firstly, you have to inform your debt counsellor that you wish to terminate the debt counselling process. The debt counsellor will then issue a clearance certificate.
Prior to doing so, you should approach each of your creditors and advise them of the intention to terminate the debt counselling process.
Generally, most creditors are delighted to hear this and are more amenable to negotiating reduced payment arrangements directly with the consumer.
Debt consolidation does come at an additional cost, so I would not recommend it as a first choice.
- Fin24
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Disclaimer: Fin24 cannot be held liable for any investment decisions made based on the advice given by independent financial service providers.
Under the ECT Act and to the fullest extent possible under the applicable law, Fin24 disclaims all responsibility or liability for any damages whatsoever resulting from the use of this site in any manner.
I need to get out of debt counselling. Is it a correct procedure to negotiate directly with the bank, then give a 30-day notice to the debt counsellor once all has been agreed with the bank?
What is the cheaper way of paying the debts thereafter, i e debt consolidation or pay per account?
Nicky Campbell, consumer law expert and MD of the SA Law Centre, responds:
Firstly, you have to inform your debt counsellor that you wish to terminate the debt counselling process. The debt counsellor will then issue a clearance certificate.
Prior to doing so, you should approach each of your creditors and advise them of the intention to terminate the debt counselling process.
Generally, most creditors are delighted to hear this and are more amenable to negotiating reduced payment arrangements directly with the consumer.
Debt consolidation does come at an additional cost, so I would not recommend it as a first choice.
- Fin24
Do you have a pressing financial question? Post it on our Money Clinic section and we will get an expert to answer your query.
Disclaimer: Fin24 cannot be held liable for any investment decisions made based on the advice given by independent financial service providers.
Under the ECT Act and to the fullest extent possible under the applicable law, Fin24 disclaims all responsibility or liability for any damages whatsoever resulting from the use of this site in any manner.