💳 Simplify Your Debt & Save Money

Debt Consolidation Calculator
South Africa 2025

Compare your current multiple debts against a single consolidation loan. Calculate monthly savings, total interest reduction, and see if debt consolidation is right for you.

30-50%
Typical Payment Reduction
14-18%
Consolidation Rate
1 Payment
vs. Multiple Debts
Free
Calculator

Debt Consolidation Calculator

Compare your current debts vs. a single consolidation loan

Your Current Debts

Consolidation Loan Terms

Typical: 14-18% for good credit

Max R1,207.50 or 15% of loan (whichever is higher)

Typical: R50-R69 per month

📊 Current Debt Situation

Total Debt:R120,000
Monthly Payment:R4,500
Weighted Interest Rate:20.58%
Total Interest (est.):R44,603.907
Total Cost:R164,603.907
Time to Pay Off:46 months

💳 Consolidation Loan

Loan Amount:R121,207.5
Interest Rate:15.5%
Monthly Payment:R2,984.427
Total Interest:R60,273.129
Total Cost:R180,273.129
Loan Term:60 months

⚠️ Analysis

Monthly Savings:R1,515.573 saved
Total Savings:R15,669.223 more cost
Payment Reduction:33.7% lower
Interest Rate Savings:5.08% lower
Time Saved:14 months longer

⚠️ Consolidation May Not Help

Based on current terms, consolidation would not provide significant savings. Consider negotiating a lower interest rate (target: 17.6% or less) or shorter term before consolidating.

What is Debt Consolidation?

Debt consolidation combines multiple debts (credit cards, personal loans, store accounts) into one single loan with a lower interest rate and simplified monthly payment.

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Lower Interest Rate

Reduce from 20-24% credit card rates to 14-18% consolidation loan

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Single Monthly Payment

Simplify finances - one payment instead of juggling multiple debts

⏱️

Fixed Repayment Term

Clear payoff date (3-7 years) vs. revolving credit card debt

Improve Credit Score

On-time payments and lower credit utilization boost credit rating

When to Consolidate Debt

✓ Good Reasons to Consolidate

  • • Multiple high-interest debts (>20% p.a.)
  • • Struggling to keep track of payments
  • • Good credit score (qualify for lower rate)
  • • Stable income to afford new payment
  • • Committed to not accumulating new debt

✕ Bad Reasons to Consolidate

  • • Just to free up credit cards to spend more
  • • Consolidation rate higher than current average
  • • Can't afford the new monthly payment
  • • Haven't addressed overspending habits
  • • Near end of current debt payoff anyway
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Consolidation Tips

  • • Shop around - compare 3+ lenders for best rate
  • • Avoid new debt after consolidating
  • • Consider shorter term to save on interest
  • • Check for early settlement penalties
  • • Ensure monthly payment fits your budget
  • • Read the fine print - watch for hidden fees

Debt Consolidation vs. Debt Review in South Africa

💳 Debt Consolidation

Take out a new loan to pay off existing debts. You remain in control of your finances.

  • ✓ No credit record flag
  • ✓ Keep control of your accounts
  • ✓ Can still apply for new credit
  • ✓ Faster process (days to weeks)

📋 Debt Review (Counseling)

Legal process under National Credit Act. Debt counselor negotiates with creditors.

  • • Flagged as "under debt review"
  • • Cannot apply for new credit
  • • Must complete full program
  • • Takes 3-5 years typically

Important: Only consider debt consolidation if you can afford the new payment and commit to not accumulating new debt. If you're over-indebted (spending more than you earn), consider debt counseling or financial advice from a registered debt counselor.