Yes, you can choose another registered debt counsellor. The NCR’s June 2026 guideline says a transfer continues the existing process. It does not restart the application timeline. Prescribed documents and legitimate outstanding fees can affect the handover. Read the NCR transfer guideline.
If you are considering a change, focus on a clear handover: who will manage the case, what has already happened and where your next payment should go. A new name on the file should not leave you guessing about the next step.
Do I need permission from my current counsellor?
The NCR says your existing counsellor’s consent and a reason from you are not required. A valid power of attorney establishes authority; Form 17.7 is among the transfer documents. See sections 2, 4 and 7.
Before sending documents, independently verify the receiving counsellor through the NCR register. Ask for a secure document-sharing route. Do not post identity documents, bank statements or account numbers in public comments.
What should the receiving counsellor explain?
Use the handover conversation to get a written picture of your case. Useful questions include:
- What stage has my application reached, and which records show that?
- Is there an existing court or tribunal order, and have you reviewed it?
- Which account balances and payment records still need checking?
- Who will answer my next payment query, and how should I identify it?
- Which documents are outstanding, who will obtain them and when should I follow up?
Keep the recap with your existing correspondence. Mark anything still being checked rather than treating an unanswered question as a confirmed fact.
Will I pay the starting fees again?
Already-paid application, administration, restructuring and legal fees cannot be charged again. Completed-work fees may remain due. Ask for an invoice and work evidence if fees delay the transfer. See sections 3 and 5.
For each disputed item, record the service, invoice date, amount and your payment reference. Ask the receiving counsellor to explain any unresolved charge before you agree to it. Do not assume that every charge is new or that every previous charge disappears.
What happens to my payments during the handover?
Keep following the existing payment arrangement unless a lawful change has been confirmed. The NCR emphasises that consumers must continue making agreed payments. A transfer request is not a payment holiday. Read the NCR’s consumer guidance.
Confirm the payment date, reference and distribution route in writing. Independently verify any request to change banking details before paying. Keep proof of payment and ask who will reconcile it if a credit-provider statement differs.
What if the transfer is not progressing?
Request a written explanation of what is outstanding. Keep the request, responses and supporting records together. If you believe your transfer rights are being obstructed, use the NCR’s official complaints route rather than relying on a promise of instant debt-review removal.
A transfer and clearance are different steps. Read Alliance’s Form 19 clearance guide if your question is about finishing debt review.
Would you like Alliance to explain the handover questions for your circumstances? You can choose to contact Alliance. Use a private channel for documents. A conversation does not establish that a transfer, payment change or clearance has been approved.
General educational guidance reviewed against the linked NCR sources on 14 October 2026. Your case records and applicable legal process determine the next step.