If December money is tight and a loan repayment is due, don’t ignore it or hide from your lender. Missed payments can bring extra fees and harm your credit record, and the problem usually grows the longer it is left. TransUnion’s first-quarter 2026 report showed many South Africans leaning more heavily on credit, so you are not alone.
Contact your lender before the due date, explain your situation and ask whether they can offer a payment arrangement. Work out which debts matter most, such as rent or bond, transport and food, and keep proof of any agreement in writing. Try not to take a new loan to pay an old one without checking the full cost, because that can deepen the problem.
If you are struggling with several debts, a registered debt counsellor can look at your whole situation and explain your options. If you think a lender is treating you unfairly, you can complain to the National Credit Regulator or the Credit Ombud. This is general information, not financial advice, so check your own loan agreement for the exact terms.