THE National Credit Regulator (NCR) shared these tips with consumers on what to do prior to entering debt counselling.

.It is advisable for consumers to contact their credit providers first to try and re-negotiate their instalments before they apply for debt counselling.

.Only approach a debt counsellor if you cannot get help from your major credit providers or banks.

.Remember that a debt counsellor must disclose his/her fees to you before you undergo debt counselling. Insist on getting this.

.You have the right to negotiate this fee.

Exercise this right. In most instances there is more than one debt counsellor in your area and you have a choice. Use this as a negotiating tool.

.If a debt counsellor insists on charging you exorbitant fees, you have the right to approach another debt counsellor.

.Make sure that you get a copy of the agreement, setting out fees for future reference.

.You pay through a Payment Distribution Agency (PDA) and do not pay a debt counsellor directly or into their account.

Money should be paid to a PDA. Request the telephone number of the PDA in order to verify the bank details.

.Honour your payment agreement. Remember that debt counselling is not a payment holiday. If you default on the payments, the credit providers can terminate your debt counselling and you will lose all the protection from the National Credit Act.

.A consumer who has applied for debt review cannot enter into any further credit agreements other than a consolidation agreement;

Should consumers not understand anything regarding debt counselling, he/she should approach his/her debt counsellor for clarity and assistance.

As part of debt counselling fees, consumers pay a monthly after-care fee.

This is to make sure that the debt counsellor takes care of the consumer for the duration of the process.