These guidelines govern everything we publish at Debt & Finance. They exist to keep our content accurate, independent and genuinely useful to South African readers.
Independence first
Our editorial decisions — what we cover, how we rate it, and what we say — are made independently of any commercial relationship. Advertisers and affiliate partners do not review, approve or influence our content before it is published.
Accuracy and fact-checking
We strive to get the facts right. Loan amounts, rates, fees and requirements are taken from each provider’s official sources and checked against the NCR register and the National Credit Act. Where a figure is individualised or quote-based, we say so rather than presenting an estimate as fact. Each review carries a verified date.
Sources
We cite authoritative references — the National Credit Regulator, the National Credit Act, and providers’ own published terms — so readers can verify what we report. We avoid relying on unverified third-party claims, and we distinguish clearly between confirmed facts and our own assessment.
Expertise and balance
Our reviews aim to present a balanced picture: what a product does well, and where it falls short. We will not write one-sided promotional content dressed up as a review. Every review includes clear pros and cons.
Responsible lending
We cover credit because South Africans use it — but we will never encourage over-indebtedness. Where a product is high-cost or carries real risk, we say so plainly, and we point readers toward budgeting help or registered debt counselling where that is the more responsible path. We do not target vulnerable readers or imply that borrowing is consequence-free.
Corrections
If we get something wrong, we fix it. Material corrections are made promptly and, where relevant, noted. To report an error, contact us via the details on our Contact page.
Conflicts of interest
Where a potential conflict exists, we disclose it. Our commercial model is explained in full in our Advertiser Disclosure.
Debt & Finance publishes general educational information, not personalised financial advice.