Debt Collectors on the Hunt for Unpaid TV Licence Fees
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has resorted to using debt collectors to pursue millions of rand in outstanding TV licence fees. But what can these debt collectors really do to get their money back?
According to the Broadcasting Act of 1999, the SABC is entitled to charge up to 100% interest on outstanding debts per year. This means that if you owe R1,000 in unpaid TV licence fees, you could end up owing R2,000 within a year.
So, how do you avoid the debt collectors and stop the interest from adding up?
You can start by paying your outstanding balance directly through one of the SABC's retail partners, online, or at an ATM. Simply use your TV licence number as the reference number to make sure your payment is applied correctly.
If you're struggling to pay your TV licence fees, you can also make arrangements to pay off your debt directly with the SABC. This can be done by SMSing your ID number or licence account number to 44210.
But be warned: the SABC has three authorised debt collectors
- Hahn Collections, VVM NuDebt Management PTY Ltd, and Debt Recovery - who will be relentless in their pursuit of your money.
Don't Get Caught Out By The Debt Collectors
So, what can these debt collectors really do to get their money back? Here's what you need to know:
- They can notify lenders that you owe them money, which may negatively impact your credit rating.
- They can submit your default payment to credit bureaus, which can also harm your credit score.
- They cannot add fees and penalties to your existing debt, but they can charge interest at a rate of up to 100% per year.
- They may offer discounts if you settle your account, but be wary of any claims that seem too good to be true.
- They will not stop until they have recovered as much of the debt as possible, including any interest and fees.
Don't Get Caught Out By The Debt Collectors
Don't wait until it's too late! Take action today and pay off your outstanding TV licence fees to avoid the debt collectors and stop the interest from adding up.
Key Facts:*
- Only two in ten households with a TV are in good standing with the SABC.
- The SABC is using debt collectors to pursue millions of rand in outstanding TV licence fees.
- The Broadcasting Act of 1999 allows the SABC to charge up to 100% interest on outstanding debts per year.
- The SABC has three authorised debt collectors
- Hahn Collections, VVM NuDebt Management PTY Ltd, and Debt Recovery.
- Paying your outstanding TV licence fees directly with the SABC can stop the interest from adding up.
- SMSing your ID number or licence account number to 44210 can also help you make arrangements to pay off your debt.
- The debt collectors will not stop until they have recovered as much of the debt as possible, including any interest and fees.