What is blacklisting?
In simple terms, to be blacklisted means that credit providers will not extend you credit because you were unable to repay previous debts and are now considered a high risk debtor. Even when you settle the outstanding debts that lead to your blacklisting, your credit profile will remain tainted for between two to five years.
What are the reasons for blacklisting?
There are several reasons why you may have been blacklisted, including:
Accounts that are in arrears
Having accounts in arrears means that that you have failed to make scheduled payments and fallen behind on your accounts, and that your credit record reflects this, but that no legal action has been taken against you yet. At this stage you are still able to approach the credit provider directly to make an arrangement to settle your debt and catch up on back-payments. There is normally an administrative fine, but this is better than the alternative.
Accounts in default
When your credit profile reflects that your accounts are in default, this means that your debt has been handed over to attorneys. What will be visible on your credit report is that the debt in question has been handed over or written off because the creditor feels that the chances of recovering the debt is too low or the cost of recovery too high. This will reflect on your credit record for two years.
A judgment against your name
When you have a judgement against your name it means that your creditors have taken legal action against you. Debts of less that R100 000 are handed over to the magistrates' court, while debts over this amount will be handed to the high court. These are very serious charges and even if you pay off the debt after judgment, it will show up on your credit profile for up to five years. Credit providers view a judgment as high risk and your chances of getting future credit becomes highly unlikely.
What to do when you have been blacklisted
The simplest way to avoid blacklisting is to ensure that all of your accounts and bills are settled in time. However, this is much easier said than done. If you fear that your credit record may have deteriorated to the point where blacklisting is a real possibility, your best option is to consider debt review or administration, so you may settle your debts in a constructive way.
Get in touch & stay informed
Are you unsure about your blacklisting status? Get in touch with Libertine Consultants today. We are here to help you understand and improve your financial situation, so you may relieve any debt-related stress and live a happy, financially secure life.