Cellphone Contracts for Blacklisted (No Credit Check)
By MoneyToday Team • Nov 09, 2024 • 6 min read
If you have a poor credit score or are "blacklisted" (credit impaired), applying for a cellphone contract with Vodacom, MTN, or Telkom usually ends in a swift decline.
However, staying connected is essential. In 2025, new players have entered the market with subscription models and month-to-month plans that focus on your income rather than your credit history.
The "Guaranteed Approval" Scam
Be extremely careful of Facebook or Google ads promising "Guaranteed iPhone 15 contracts - No Credit Checks".
Legitimate companies must do some form of affordability assessment by law (NCA). If a company promises 100% approval, they are likely:
- Scammers collecting your ID and banking details.
- Charging an "upfront admin fee" and then disappearing.
- Charging extortionate interest rates that will trap you in debt.
Option 1: Subscription (Rent-to-Own)
This is the biggest shift in the SA market. Companies like Rentoza have popularized the "subscription" model. You aren't taking out credit; you are renting the device.
How it works
Instead of a credit check, they look at your bank statements. If you have a regular salary and enough disposable income to afford the monthly fee, you generally get approved.
Option 2: Month-to-Month SIM Only
If you already have a phone (even an old one), getting a SIM-only contract is much easier. Because the provider isn't risking a R20,000 device, their criteria are lower.
The Fully Digital Network. Everything is done via App.
They offer "Build Your Own" plans. Since it is paid upfront or month-to-month, there are virtually no credit hurdles. You can pause or cancel anytime.
Runs on MTN Network.
Afrihost is famous for being hassle-free. Signing up for Air Mobile usually just requires a valid bank account for the debit order. If the debit order fails, they just pause service. Very low risk for them, easy access for you.
Data that never expires.
While strictly prepaid (not a contract), it behaves like one. Rates are flat (R4.50 per 100MB). No credit checks because it links directly to your Capitec account.
Contract vs. Prepaid vs. Subscription
| Type | Credit Check? | Device Included? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Contract | Strict | Yes | Good Credit Score |
| Subscription (Rentoza) | Income Check | Yes | Regular Income / Blacklisted |
| SIM Only / Month-to-Month | Minimal | No | Own Device / Flexible |
| Prepaid | None | No | Total Control |
The Long Game: Fixing your Credit
While these options help you now, the goal should be to repair your credit score so you can access standard rates later.
- Pay small debts first: Clothing accounts are great for building score. Pay them on time every month.
- Check your report: Use ClearScore (it's free in SA) to see if there are errors on your profile.
- Wait it out: Negative judgments stay for 5 years, but their impact lessens over time if your recent behavior is good.