What does it mean to be blacklisted?
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 to do when you realize you’ve been blacklisted
1. Know exactly what is going on with your credit profile
As a South African citizen, you are entitled to one free credit report per year. Pull a credit report from one of the reputable credit bureaux, so you can see which items on your profile are causing the issue. If you are having trouble understanding the contents of the report, it might be prudent to get a credit analysis.
2. Settle judgements on your profile
If there are any judgements on your credit profile, settle those first. According to the Credit Act, these have to be removed immediately once the judgements are settled.
3. Get your arrears up to date
The number one issue that leads to blacklisting is accounts in arrears. Pay up your accounts as soon as possible. The fact that it was in arrears in the first place will remain visible on your record for 24 months, but if you can show good payment behaviour for 3-6 months your odds of securing credit are much improved.
4. Bring defaulted accounts up to date
Bring defaulted accounts up to date or settle it outright. Once this is done, you can negotiate with the credit provider to remove the default listing, which has a significant impact on how your credit score is calculated. TOP TIP: Don’t settle your debts all at once; it will not have the positive effect on your credit score you think it will. The key is to show good payment behaviour over a prolonged period of time.
These are the first steps you should take to remove your name from a blacklist. If that all sounds rather complicated, it’s because it is. The National Credit Act is there to protect consumers, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot of red tape involved to clear your name.
Collaborating with a reputed debt counselling service such as Libertine Consultants provides you with all the tools you need to get the process underway as swiftly and painlessly as possible.
Our experienced team of debt counsellors know the process inside out and will be able to assist you in getting all your paperwork in order as soon as possible. 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.