DISPUTES · FIND YOUR FREE REFEREE
Which ombud takes your complaint?
South Africa has a free referee for almost every consumer fight; most people just never use them. Pick what your complaint is about and see exactly where it goes, what it costs (nothing) and what to have ready.
Freeevery consumer ombud scheme in South Africa
15 business daysthe business typically gets to respond before you lodge
R5 millionthe cap on banking and credit claims at the NFO
3 yearsthe general limit from when you knew about the problem
The golden rules for any ombud complaint
- Complain to the business first, in writing, and keep the reference: nearly every scheme requires it and gives the business about 15 business days
- Stick to facts and dates; attach proof; say exactly what outcome you want
- Lodge within the time limit, generally within three years of knowing about the problem
- Everything is free: pay nobody to lodge an ombud complaint for you unless you simply want the drafting done well
Want your complaint drafted properly?
We structure your facts, evidence and requested outcome into a submission the ombud can act on. R350, one business day.
Order the draftingRouting reflects the 2026 ombud landscape including the National Financial Ombud consolidation. Received an ombud complaint against your business instead? The Escalations Toolkit covers the response side. General information, not legal advice.