6 common questions South Africans ask about it

For many South Africans, “the ITC check” is one of those phrases you grow up hearing about in serious tones.

It sounds official. A bit intimidating. Like something you are supposed to understand, but nobody ever really explains it.

Then suddenly you are the adult and it gets mentioned when you apply for a loan, a store card, a rental, or even a job, and it still sounds serious.

But an ITC check is not something to fear.

It is simply a way of looking at the credit information linked to your name and South African ID number. Just as importantly, it is information you are allowed to see too. When you understand what is being checked, you can protect it, manage it, and avoid unexpected surprises.

Here are the six most common questions people ask about ITC checks, answered simply.

1. What is checked in an ITC check?

An ITC check is not one single, official check.

In SA, the term “ITC check” is commonly used as shorthand for a credit check. It usually refers to a credit report and credit score pulled from a registered credit bureau.

In everyday use, when someone says they are doing an ITC check, they almost always mean a credit check.

2. Why is my ID number used for an ITC check?

Your ID number is how credit information is matched to you.

Credit bureaus use your South African ID number to make sure accounts and payment histories belong to the correct person. This helps prevent mix-ups with people who have similar names and reduces the risk of fraud or duplicated records.

Using your ID number is standard practice and part of keeping credit data accurate and secure.

3. Can I do my own ITC check?

Yes, you can.

You have the right to see your own credit information. You can get your latest credit report through trusted platforms like Finance365.

This allows you to check your credit score online without paperwork, long forms or waiting in queues, and to view your full credit report in one place.

4. Is an ITC check the same as a free credit check?

In most cases, yes.

A credit check that forms part of an ITC check is the same information you would see in a free credit check.

Remember that by law, you are entitled to one free credit report per year from each registered credit bureau. And platforms like Finance365 also give you ongoing free access to your credit information, so you can check everything more regularly and stay informed.

5. What should I look for when I see my ITC check results?

Start by checking that everything looks correct.

Look at things like your personal details, the accounts listed in your name, payment statuses and balances, and for any credit enquiries you do not recognise. If something does not look right, such as an account you do not recognise or incorrect information, it may need a credit report correction.

Fixing mistakes early can help prevent problems later, especially if your credit is being checked as part of an application.

6. Does an ITC check include a criminal record check?

No, not by default.

An ITC check usually refers to a credit check done through a registered credit bureau. It looks at your credit history, not your criminal history.

In some situations, such as certain job applications or rental screenings, a criminal record check may be asked for separately. These checks are handled through different systems and need their own consent.

Do your own credit check securely

Checking your credit with your ID number is a way to see what information is linked to your name, so you can stay in control and act early if something needs attention. With Finance365, you can check your credit score and access your credit report online, as often as you need during the year. 

Don’t wait. 

Check your credit score now and know where you stand.