What Happens to Store Cards Under Debt Review?
Store cards are included in debt review and restructured like other unsecured credit. You generally cannot continue using the cards for new purchases, and the outstanding balances are repaid through the consolidated monthly payment. Interest rates may be renegotiated where the provider agrees.
Key Points
- Store cards are included in the restructured plan.
- You generally cannot use the cards for new purchases.
- Interest may be renegotiated where the provider agrees.
- Provide all store card details to your debt counsellor.
How store cards are treated
Store cards are retail credit agreements governed by the National Credit Act. Under debt review, they are included in the restructuring plan alongside your other credit accounts.
Your debt counsellor proposes revised repayment terms to each store card provider.
Can you keep shopping on the cards?
Generally no. Once a store card is under debt review, the account is closed to further purchases so that the balance can be repaid. This prevents the debt from growing while you are reducing it.
The card provider is notified of the debt review and manages the account accordingly.
Can the interest be reduced?
Store card interest rates may be negotiated down where the provider agrees, as part of the restructuring proposal. Lower rates help more of your payment reduce the capital balance.
Reductions are not guaranteed and depend on each provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Worried That Your Debt Has Become Unaffordable?
Debt Guidance can assess your income, essential expenses and debt commitments to determine whether debt review may be appropriate.
Reviewed by Carolina Guevara Harris
Registered Debt Counsellor · NCRDC3152
Last updated: 17 September 2025
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