7.5/10
Our Score
Rating Breakdown
151 reviews
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🛡️ Our Honest Take
DebtBusters has established itself as one of the most prominent debt counselling companies in South Africa since its founding, operating under the regulatory framework of the National Credit Act 34 of 2005. The company has won the Top National Debt Counsellor accolade at the Debt Review Awards nine times, a record that reflects consistent performance and peer recognition within the debt counselling industry. Having guided over a million South Africans through the debt review process, DebtBusters brings considerable practical experience to clients who are navigating what is often a stressful and complex financial situation.
The core offering is formal debt review under Section 86 of the NCA, a legal process in which a registered debt counsellor formally assesses a consumer's over-indebtedness, notifies all creditors and credit bureaus, and negotiates a restructured repayment plan. DebtBusters also offers debt consolidation as an alternative for clients whose circumstances allow for a single consolidated arrangement rather than full statutory debt review. Their free credit monitoring tool adds practical value by allowing clients to check their credit report and track improvements to their credit score throughout the process and beyond.
As required under the NCA, DebtBusters must hold a valid NCR registration number and comply with the NCR's regulated fee structure. Fees for debt counselling in South Africa are subject to NCR guidelines, which include a restructuring fee and a monthly aftercare fee, typically capped at a percentage of the debt repayment amount. Consumers are encouraged to request a full fee disclosure upfront before signing any agreement, as these costs will form part of the monthly repayment arrangement. The website does not publish the specific NCRDC registration number or a detailed fee schedule openly, so prospective clients should request this information directly during their initial consultation.
Customer feedback reflects a broadly positive experience, particularly around consultant responsiveness and the quality of individual support. Reviewers frequently highlight the professionalism of consultants, timely follow-up, and the practical relief felt once repayments are reduced and legal protection kicks in. Verified customer accounts describe situations ranging from business debt that threatened marriages to over-extended credit use by young earners, and in both cases clients credit DebtBusters with providing real, lasting relief. The company holds a Trustpilot score of 4.1 from 136 reviews, with the majority of recent feedback rated five stars.
Overall, DebtBusters represents a credible, experienced, and well-regulated option for South African consumers who are over-indebted and need a professionally managed route to financial recovery. The multi-year commitment and restrictions on new credit are inherent to the debt review process itself rather than specific to this provider, and consumers should approach debt review with a clear understanding of what the process entails. For those who meet the requirements and are committed to the process, DebtBusters offers the expertise, track record, and ongoing support needed to see the process through to a clearance certificate.
Latest Reviews (showing 40 of 151)
Miserable Experience - Debt Busters
When Debt Busters took over my profile 2 years ago, the start date and the debit amount was not done correctly however after 3 months this was resolved and my journey began. My last payment was supposed to be at the end of March 2026 and that was far from the truth. As per Debt Busters their statements that they send to customers are incorrect, and should not be followed. I have called multiple times since March 2026 to get a recon and a final amount to be paid so I can get my clearance certificate but to date after speaking to 19 consultants ( including Team Leaders ) nobody can confirm the final amount that needs to be paid. I even went as far as emailing my entire payment journey to the CEO desk, NCR and Ombudsman as well as the consultants looking into my case and i cannot get any satisfaction. I spoke to 2 consultants yesterday and both could not give me an amount that needed to be paid in order for me to settle my account. I was told to go directly to the service provider and receive a statement and pay them directly. Now i am being held at ransom of never coming out of debt counselling. Debt Busters were the biggest mistake i have ever made, i am taking my case to social media so maybe would get answers to get my profile off debt counselling. Please do not use debt busters, worst company ever!!!!!
I have a bitter taste in my mouth about…
I have a bitter taste in my mouth about this company. I have been a customer of DebtBusters for a while now. Here's why this taste doesn't become any sweeter, so two weeks ago, an attorney sent me an email stating I am in arrears with my bond. I was confused and contacted DebtBusters, who stated they would contact me. With the belief and confidence I had entrusted DebtBusters to honour their word. Three weeks have gone by, and still nothing from DebtBusters.Finally, I contacted DebtBusters and spoke with a lady (will not name & shame), who explicitly said to me that it must be escalated. To date, no communication has been received from DebtBusters.The customer service level was remarkable when I joined never had any issues until now. This is really sad in how DebtBusters treat their existing customer base. Waiting for my issue to get sorted.
Dropped me at the last minute when it…
Dropped me at the last minute when it counted. I used debt busters and they helped me sort out my financial situation. but as soon as I had cleared all my debt they went quiet and it has been over 8 months and I am still considered under debt review on all the credit bureaus. They do not reply yo my mails and when i do get a random reply they seem to have issues and systems are down. I think you can get a better service elsewhere that wont take their interest and then leave you once your payments stop.
Car got Repossessed while under dept…
Car got Repossessed while under dept review which unheard off. Don't even deserve a star car got repossessed after they suspended my services after I told them I'm unemployed try going with a company called zero dept they actually tried to help me but unfortunately I can switch to then because I'm Registered under dept busters
NEVER USE DEBTBUSTERS
I have been trying to speak with a manager for 3 weeks now regarding a complaint. DebtBusters is incredibly quick to call and email when signing you up, but once you have entered into an agreement with them, they will not respond to emails or calls. The way in which my case has been handled has been shocking, and cost me an additional R600. While Debt Consolidation is an amazing tool for taking back control of your finances, I strongly recommend that any potential customers use a different agency as DebtBusters does not have any customer service and you will never be assisted with genuine complaints.
The customer relations manager…
The customer relations manager allocated to me provide clear feedback and attend to my emails and respond So far for the company is attending to queries as well and addresses my concern and still satisfied with your services
Service is extremely excellent
I queried with one of my account service provider harassing me, which it has been dealt with accordingly.
The agent was very helpful
The agent was very helpful, and I could understood what was explained to me. I really appreciate the quick response I received. Service is amazing thank you
Lendelwa was very helpful and assist in…
Lendelwa was very helpful and assist in getting my matter resolved a quickly as possible. The problem I incurred was getting someone to help me after numerous calls and emails I finally got help from her. The other issue was that every time I phone in to speak to her I had to explain myself to someone on why I want to speak to her they wanted to resolve my quarries.
I feel heard and helped especially in…
I feel heard and helped especially in time of need. Thank you for your understanding and guidance helping me make a way through my debt.
I needed a payment break
I needed a payment break to help with an outstanding bill from the municipality. Debt busters were fantastic, they got back to me super quickly with a solution. Debt review is a scary place to be when things go wrong. Luckily I feel a lot more at ease knowing Debt busters care!
The consultants service was beautiful
The consultants service was beautiful, she was attentive, patient with me and gave me useful advice. All in all 5 star rating
Always on top of what needs to be done
Always on top of what needs to be done, consistent and supportive through every step of the process. Great Job!
This is a SCAM,i wrote countless emails…
This is a SCAM,i wrote countless emails and told debtbusters to CANCEL my application before 17.2 form was issued.i contacted NCR and explained my situation and they told me that it is possible to cancel the application before 17.2 agreement but KUDZAI CHIVAMBA went ahead and flagged all my paid up store accounts and credit cards that were not even listed on the application. I made it very clear on the emails that i will not be part of the process & will not let you debit even a cent from my bank account,but the so called Kudzai Chivamba did not honour his promise to proceed with rejection. I feel so scammed,and my rights being violated.i am so disappointed and my financial freedom was taken away from me.i will not encourage any one to be part of this crap,its like being in prison and jailed for life.you are such a disgrace for taking advantage of my situation.
This is a scam
This is a scam , even after I told them to cancel the application before they shared the 17.2 I called NCR and they told me that it is possible to cancel the application before 17.2 agreement but Simamkele Booi continues to be a god and proceeded with the application. I will not be part of the process,I declare. I was harassed and my rights were violated. I will wait for them to send the court date , my lawyers are ready. We are tired of people scamming people because of business and that they want to reach a certain numbers by force.This I will take to all platforms to make them aware of the matter,
Laaiqah Khan | Client Relationship…
Laaiqah Khan | Client Relationship Manager gave relevant information and feedback. She also made me at ease that things are going well with my profile
Yoh was a worrible lying consultant…
Yoh was a worrible lying consultant called Simamkele Booi , today my family lost thousands of rands because of her lack of knowledge of what she is doing.Had she told me to move my insurances on time I wouldn’t have been in deep shit . Have been sending her emails since 24.march 2026 to cancel the application to date she had done nothing.Then she allows her friends to call and harass me .I am disappointed very disappointed also her leader Lebohang has done nothing about it.I need someone who can assist me ASAP
Debt busters gave me peace of mind
Debt busters gave me peace of mind, and I love the kindness of the staff, I'm assigned to communicate with Laaiqah, so helpful, kind and make regular follow ups and gives update.
Debt busters is a scam
Debt busters is a scam, I finished paying all my debts February. Till today even April they still debiting money from me I sent all the paid up letters still. If anyone can help me take legal actions against them please help this is too much now.
Very good service from consultant
Very good service
Client service is beyond exceptional
Client service is beyond exceptional
Amazing Service
The consultant was absolutely brilliant, assisting me with all issues at hand. She also sent me a follow up email as per the conversation discussed. 10/10 Service
Great service
Always going above and beyond for customers satisfaction. Quick turnaround time on queries
Not applicable
Not applicable
Service is great
Service is great
Very friendly And efficient
Very friendly And efficient
Only 3 months left,and i'll be…
Only 3 months left,and i'll be debtfree,i can recommend Debtbusters even in my sleep,they really know how to bust your debt,they really are the best
You attend to my need promptly
You attend to my need promptly
Communication
Communication
Feedback was immediately provided
The communication was provided within the peeriod with clear indication of what could be the outcome.
DO NOT TRUST THIS COMPANY!
Very poor service and extremely poor communication. Multiple follow ups were made, yet no proper response or assistance was provided. Important requests were apparently not processed despite assurances from staff, which caused unnecessary stress and serious inconvenience. There was little accountability, no urgency, and no meaningful feedback when it was most needed. Overall, a very disappointing experience. This company takes your money and does not pay your creditors of which confirmation was provided by my car finance company of which they terminated contract with Debt Buster which resulted in almost having my car repossessed in the process. DO NOT EVER MAKE THE BIGGEST MISTAKE BY DEALING WITH THIS COMPANY!!!!!!!!!!!
Zilungile is an absolute star
Zilungile is an absolute star. Very impressive service, an asset to your organization.
Make it simple
Thanks for explaining
service
The level of serve I got this morning from debt buster call was so helpful. So clear and understandable. This was exactly what I needed to hear Thank you
Laaiqah Khan was truly a great help
Laaiqah Khan was truly a great help , thank you for calling me back and resolving my query .
DebtBusters: The Most Unprofessional, Hostile Customer Experience I’ve Had in Years
I am deeply disappointed with the service I received from DebtBusters. After reaching out for assistance, I was met with short, unhelpful email responses that did absolutely nothing to address my questions or the reason for my enquiry. To make matters worse, I was assigned a consultant named Jeanpi, whose conduct was completely unprofessional and unacceptable. This was, without exaggeration, one of the worst customer service experiences I have ever had. I was spoken over, interrupted, and at one point shouted at, as a potential customer. That is shocking. As someone who is a Head of Customer Support, I can confidently say that this behavior reflects severe customer-handling issues. If this consultant worked under me, he would be removed from call duties immediately and required to attend a disciplinary proceeding for: Dereliction of duty Brand and reputational damage Failure to uphold basic customer service standards No customer, even a potential one should ever feel disrespected, dismissed, or mistreated when reaching out for help. This experience has completely destroyed any confidence I might have had in DebtBusters’ ability to support customers with professionalism and care. This was horrific service, and I am beyond disappointed. I DO NOT OR EVER WILL recommend this company to anyone.
good
Made thing easier
Clear and honest responses.
Clear and honest responses.
Fast and easy
Fast and easy
Am no happy at all
Am no happy at all
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