Short answer:
A legitimate debt counsellor in South Africa must be registered with the National Credit Regulator (NCR) and have an active NCRDC number. For example at Meerkat, our Founder and CEO David O'Brien is a registered debt counsellor under code NCRDC2613.
Step 1: Check the NCR register
All registered debt counsellors are listed with the National Credit Regulator (NCR).
How to verify:
Search the NCR register by: Debt Counsellor name or NCRDC number (e.g. NCRDC2613)
Confirm that:
The counsellor appears on the register
The NCRDC number is active
The registration status is not suspended or withdrawn
If the counsellor is not listed, they are not legally authorised to offer debt counselling services.
Step 2: Ask for the NCRDC number
A registered debt counsellor will provide their NCRDC number on request.
You should verify this number independently on the NCR register.
Warning signs:
“Registration pending”
“Operating under another licence”
These are common indicators of unregistered operators.
Step 3: Confirm who manages your debt review file
Before proceeding, confirm:
Who is the registered debt counsellor on your file
Whether your debt review will be transferred to a new NCR licence
Whether a formal debt review transfer (Form 17.7) is required
If this cannot be explained clearly, do not proceed.
Step 4: Verify digital and business details
Legitimate debt counsellors typically have:
A professional website
Published NCR registration details
A physical business address
Public customer reviews
Avoid companies that rely solely on WhatsApp or request payment before verification.
Step 5: Contact the NCR directly
If unsure, the National Credit Regulator can confirm whether a debt counsellor is registered and authorised.
Meerkat is a registered debt counsellor with the National Credit Regulator (NCRDC2613).
How do I verify a debt counsellor in South Africa?
Check the National Credit Regulator register and confirm the counsellor has an active NCRDC number.
What is an NCRDC number?
An NCRDC number is a unique registration number issued by the National Credit Regulator to licensed debt counsellors.
Can anyone remove me from debt review?
No. Only a registered debt counsellor can legally manage or remove a debt review.