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Debt Review & Debt Mediation: Are They The Same?

If you’re struggling with debt repayments and are offered a choice between debt review and debt mediation, it’s important to understand the difference and know which is safer.

 

Debt Review

Debt review is a legal, regulated process created by the National Credit Act. It’s handled by trained, registered Debt Counsellors, with agreed industry fees and official processes monitored by the National Credit Regulator (NCR).

Why people choose debt review:

    • It’s safe and legal.
    • Payments go through a trusted, audited Payment Distribution Agency (PDA).
    • Court-approved proposals protect you from legal action.
    • Credit providers often give reduced rates and fees.

Debt Mediation

Debt mediation is unregulated. It usually involves someone offering to call your credit providers and ask for lower payments (Which is something you can do yourself).

Why some people choose it:

    • It doesn’t show as a process on your credit record (but please note: missed or short payments will).
    • You can stop any time you want (which could upset credit providers)
    • They believe the sales pitch of people who call and make amazing promises.

Which Is Better?

Debt review is the safer choice.

It’s backed by law, regulated, and offers court protection. Debt mediation is risky, often costly, and has no legal power.

Beware of scammers offering quick fixes. Always check for an NCR registration number before trusting anyone with your finances.