What is the maximum interest rate on incidental credit?

Incidental credit — such as medical or professional accounts — has a flat maximum of 2% per month, and only applies once a payment is late. Unlike most other categories, it is not linked to the SARB repo rate.

When does interest apply to incidental credit?

Interest on incidental credit, such as a medical or professional account, applies only after a payment falls overdue — not from the date the account is opened.

What is the maximum legal interest rate on incidental credit in South Africa?

Accounts such as medical or professional fees, where interest or a charge only applies after a payment is late.

The maximum is a flat statutory monthly rate — it does not move with the repo rate

National Credit Act Regulation 42(1) Table A sets a flat per-month maximum for incidental credit. Enter your quoted monthly rate below to check it against the legal maximum.

Your Credit Agreement

Credit Type

Not sure which applies? Check your credit agreement or ask your lender.

Your Quoted Rate (% per month)The interest rate quoted or charged on your agreement

Above the legal maximum

24% vs 2% maximum

Quoted rate compared against the Incidental credit maximum (per month)

Quoted Rate vs Legal Maximum

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Numeric comparison of the quoted rate against the NCA legal maximum for the selected credit type
Figure	Rate (per month)
Your quoted rate	24%
Legal maximum (Incidental credit)	2%

If you have concerns about a quoted or charged rate, you can verify the applicable maximum and your lender's registration status via the National Credit Regulator (NCR).

Incidental Credit — current maximum

Incidental Credit formula and current NCA maximum
Category	Formula (Regulation 42(1) Table A)	Current maximum
Incidental Credit	flat 2% per month	2% per month

This category's maximum is a flat monthly rate, not an annual rate — it is not linked to the SARB repo rate the way the other five categories are.

Frequently asked questions

Other credit categories

All categories (hub)Mortgage Credit Facility Unsecured Credit Developmental Credit Other Credit Short-Term Credit

If you have concerns about a quoted or charged rate, you can verify the applicable maximum and your lender's registration status via the National Credit Regulator (NCR).

This is an estimate only, not financial or tax advice, and we are not a financial services provider (FSP). Your actual figures depend on your lender or provider, and your personal circumstances.