Consumer Protection

For Consumers

DEMASA was established to protect you. Use this page to understand debt mediation, know your rights, verify a provider, and contact an accredited provider directly.

What Is Debt Mediation?

Debt mediation is a voluntary process where a consumer works with an accredited provider to restructure and manage their debt repayments — creating an affordable arrangement that works for both the consumer and their creditors.

It is not the same as debt review and does not involve a court process. The goal is a workable, realistic repayment plan — agreed between you and your creditors through a qualified mediator.

How Your Money Is Protected

With a DEMASA Authorised Provider, your funds are handled exclusively through an attorney trust account. The attorney oversees all financial flows, maintains a complete audit trail, and ensures your payments reach the correct creditors.

You remain in control at all times. You must give written consent before anything begins, and all fees must be clearly disclosed in writing before you pay anything.

Your Protection Guide

How to Choose and Verify a Provider

01

Always Check the Register

Before engaging any debt mediation provider, check the DEMASA Public Register. A DEMASA Authorised Provider has been independently verified, uses an attorney trust account, and has signed our binding Code of Conduct.

Check the Register →
02

Know What You Should Be Charged

A DEMASA Authorised Provider may only charge one assessment fee — disclosed in writing before any service begins. If a provider charges multiple undisclosed fees or requests payment without a written agreement, report it to DEMASA immediately.

03

Verify Your Provider's Number

Every DEMASA provider carries a unique DEMASA-P-XXXX Membership Number. This must appear on all contracts. Verify any number instantly below or on our public register.

04

Submit a Complaint if Needed

If a provider charged undisclosed fees, mishandled your funds, or misrepresented their services — DEMASA can investigate. Anonymous complaints are accepted. No lawyer required.

Submit a Complaint →

Verify a Provider Instantly

Enter a DEMASA Membership Number to confirm whether a provider is currently Active and accredited.

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Request Contact From an Accredited Provider

Submit your details below and DEMASA will refer your enquiry to an accredited provider in your area. All providers are independently verified and operate under our Code of Conduct.

Privacy Notice (POPIA): Your information is collected solely for the purpose of referring your enquiry to DEMASA-accredited providers. It will not be used for any other purpose or shared with any party other than the accredited provider(s) selected to contact you. You may withdraw this consent at any time by contacting compliance@demasa.org.za.

What Happens After You Submit
1.DEMASA matches your enquiry to an accredited provider in your province
2.The provider contacts you via your preferred method within 1–2 business days
3.You are under no obligation — the initial consultation is free
4.If you proceed, everything must be in writing and fees disclosed upfront
Your Protections
Provider is independently DEMASA accredited
All funds flow through an attorney trust account
One fee only — disclosed before you commit
Written consent required before anything begins
DEMASA complaint mechanism available at any time