The exact steps depend on which removal method applies, but for a Section 87 court application, the process works as follows:
1. Complete a free assessment with NDRC. You provide your current income, outstanding accounts, and debt review history. NDRC evaluates whether you qualify and which removal method applies. No fees are discussed at this stage.
2. Submit your application form and upload required documents: your ID, recent payslips, 3 months bank statements, proof of address, and any documents from your previous debt counsellor including Form 17.1, 17.2, proposals, and the court order if one exists.
3. NDRC collects and peruses all relevant documentation from your previous debt counsellor, credit providers, and other parties. Our admitted attorney partners draft the founding affidavit, notice of motion, and complete court bundle.
4. The court application is served on all respondents at least 20 business days before the court date, as required by law. Proof of service is filed at court.
5. Our admitted attorneys attend the Magistrate's Court on your behalf. You are not required to appear for unopposed applications.
6. Once the court order is granted, NDRC updates your status on the NCR Debt Help System directly. Under NCR Circular 09 of 2025 (effective 1 September 2025), debt counsellors update DHS directly, reducing processing time significantly.
7. NDRC notifies all credit providers and the four major credit bureaus. Bureau updates are completed within 21 business days of submission.
8. NDRC provides written confirmation of the bureau update. Pull your credit reports from TransUnion, Experian, XDS, and VCCB to verify the flag has been removed from all four.
Section 87 court applications typically take 4 to 6 months from application to confirmed bureau removal. Clearance Certificate applications are completed within days of confirming all accounts are settled.