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.
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 draftingMore questions people ask
Do ombudsman complaints cost anything in South Africa?
No. Every consumer ombud scheme is free to complainants: the National Financial Ombud, the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud, CSOS, the Tax Ombud, the Pension Funds Adjudicator and the sector schemes. Anyone charging you to lodge an ombud complaint is selling you a free thing.
Must I complain to the business before the ombud?
Almost always yes. The ombuds require you to give the institution a fair chance first, typically 15 business days in writing. Keep the reference number and the correspondence; it becomes the core of your ombud file.
Which ombud covers banks and insurance now?
The National Financial Ombud Scheme, since March 2024 the single scheme for banking, credit, life and short term insurance complaints. Banking and credit claims are capped at R5 million.
How long does an ombud complaint take?
Weeks to months depending on the scheme and complexity. CSOS targets about 90 days; others vary. Slower than shouting, faster and cheaper than court, and lodging usually stops prescription running on your claim.
Routing 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.