Understanding Debt Review:

A Heart for Truth in Financial Guidance. 

By Janet Homann

At The CS Group, we've witnessed firsthand how financial struggles can weigh heavily on families and individuals. Over our 17 years of faithful service, we've seen countless clients arrive at our doors not just burdened by debt, but also confused by misinformation they've encountered about the debt review process. This breaks our hearts because we know that clarity and truth are essential foundations for making life-changing financial decisions.

Recently, the National Credit Regulator (NCR) released Circular 07 of 2025, addressing the concerning issue of debt review misrepresentations. As a business rooted in Biblical values of integrity and truth, we feel called to help our community understand what these misrepresentations look like and how to protect themselves from potentially harmful financial advice.

The Reality Behind the Misrepresentations

When Bernidene first opened CS Debt Counselling in 2008, her vision was clear: to help people who were overwhelmed by debt find genuine solutions. What she didn't anticipate was how the industry would sometimes be clouded by those who prioritise profit over people, leading to misrepresentations that can trap vulnerable consumers in worse situations than before.

Misrepresentations about debt review aren't just incorrect information—they're barriers to the financial freedom that God intends for His children. As we often say, debt is one of the great forms of slavery in today's world, but we were not created to live in bondage. However, when false information guides decision-making, it can lead people deeper into that bondage rather than toward freedom.

Common Misrepresentations We've Encountered

Through our years of compassionate service, we've heard many of the misleading claims that circulate about debt review. While we won't repeat these falsehoods in detail (as that would only spread more confusion), we want you to understand the types of misrepresentations that exist:

Unrealistic Timeline Promises: Some may promise impossibly quick fixes or timelines that simply don't align with the legal debt review process. True debt rehabilitation takes time, and anyone offering overnight solutions likely isn't being truthful about what debt review can accomplish.

Guarantee Claims: Legitimate debt counsellors understand that every situation is unique. We've learned through nearly two decades of service that while debt review is incredibly effective, no ethical debt counsellor can guarantee specific outcomes without first understanding your complete financial picture.

Hidden Fee Structures: Transparency isn't just a business practice for us—it's a Biblical mandate. Unfortunately, some in the industry may not be upfront about all costs involved, leading to unexpected financial burdens for clients who are already struggling.

Oversimplified Solutions: Your financial situation is as unique as you are, created in God's image with your own story, circumstances, and needs. Any approach that treats all debt situations identically is likely missing crucial elements that could impact your journey to financial freedom.

Why Truth Matters in Financial Guidance

At The CS Group, our foundation in Kingdom principles means we believe in the power of truth to set people free—not just spiritually, but financially too. When clients receive accurate information about debt review, they can make informed decisions that align with their genuine needs and circumstances.

As Bernidene often shares with our team: "We don't just manage numbers. We speak life into situations that feel hopeless." But that life-speaking begins with honesty. When we're transparent about what debt review can and cannot do, clients can approach their financial recovery with realistic expectations and genuine hope.

The Importance of Working with Registered Professionals

One thing the NCR's circular reinforces is the critical importance of working only with registered debt counsellors. This isn't just a legal requirement—it's a protection for you and your family.

Under the National Credit Act, debt counselling services can only be provided by a registered debt counsellor, not by a company. This means that when you work with us, you're receiving personal guidance from Bernidene (NCRDC 764) or Lynn (NCRDC 4398)—not from some faceless corporate entity. You become part of our story, and we become invested in yours.

Our registration numbers aren't just credentials—they represent years of training, ongoing education, and accountability to regulatory standards designed to protect consumers like you.

Red Flags to Watch For

In our years of helping families navigate financial difficulties, we've learned to recognize the warning signs of potentially misleading debt review services. While we always encourage people to ask questions and seek clarity, here are some red flags that should prompt extra caution:

• Pressure to sign immediately without time to review documentation
• Reluctance to provide clear, written information about fees and processes
• Promises that seem too good to be true
• Inability to provide valid NCR registration details
• Communication that feels more like a sales pitch than genuine counselling

Remember, legitimate debt counsellors want you to make informed decisions, even if that means taking time to consider your options.

Our Heart for Authentic Debt Review

When we reflect on nearly 17 years of faithful service, we're reminded that our greatest victories aren't in our business growth—they're in the restored marriages, the relieved parents, the young adults who've learned financial wisdom, and the families who've moved from financial chaos to financial freedom.

This is why misrepresentations in our industry grieve us so deeply. Every person misled by false promises is someone who could have found genuine help through legitimate debt review. Every family that becomes more skeptical of debt counselling because of bad experiences makes our mission to help others that much more challenging.

The Truth About Legitimate Debt Review

Genuine debt review, conducted by registered debt counsellors operating with integrity, can be life-changing. We've seen miracles happen here—not because we promise the impossible, but because we provide honest guidance, personalised solutions, and unwavering support throughout the process.

The truth is that debt review is a legal process designed to provide financial relief while ensuring that credit providers are treated fairly. It requires commitment from you, patience with the process, and trust in the guidance of your registered debt counsellor. But when approached with honesty and realistic expectations, it can provide the pathway to financial freedom you've been seeking.

Moving Forward with Confidence

As we continue to serve our community under Bernidene's dedicated leadership, guided by Kingdom principles and supported by our exceptional team, we want you to know that you don't have to navigate these waters alone. Whether you're considering debt review for the first time or you've been confused by conflicting information you've received elsewhere, we're here to provide clarity, compassion, and genuine guidance.

At The CS Group, we believe that everyone deserves a second chance at financial freedom. More than that, we believe you deserve the truth about your options, presented with the dignity and respect that reflects your worth as one of God's children.

Your journey to financial freedom doesn't have to begin with confusion or uncertainty. It can start with a conversation with people who care about your success more than their profit—people who view debt counselling not just as a profession, but as a calling to serve others in their time of need.

Take the Next Step with Confidence

If you're considering debt review, we encourage you to arm yourself with accurate information, ask thoughtful questions, and work only with registered debt counsellors who demonstrate transparency, compassion, and expertise.

The path to financial freedom begins with a single step, and we're here to walk that journey with you—guided by truth, supported by experience, and most importantly, anchored in the belief that your financial struggles don't define your worth or limit your future.

Remember, debt may feel like slavery, but you were created for freedom. Let us help you find the path toward the financial dignity and peace that God intends for your life.

For more information about legitimate debt review services or to schedule a consultation with one of our registered debt counsellors, contact The CS Group today. Let's separate truth from fiction and build a plan that truly serves your best interests.

Registered Debt Counsellors: Bernidene Thieroff NCRDC764 & Lynn Nel NCRDC4398

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