Refund of down payment refusal after cancellation

I joined Wealthtec in August 2025 after they promised they can get my name cleared from debt review. On 22 September 2025, Wealthtec charged me R785 for services and R4,500 for a “debt review investigation.” I paid R1,500 as a down payment toward the investigation fee, with the remaining amounts scheduled to be deducted via debit order at the end of October and November.

However, after consulting with National Debt Counsellors, I was advised that the R4,500 fee for a debt review investigation is excessively high and not in line with industry standards. I therefore cancelled the services with Wealthtec and requested that all debit orders be stopped. Wealthtec confirmed that the debit order cancellation was processed, but they have refused to refund the R1,500 I already paid toward a service they will no longer be providing claiming my cancellation came after the R1500 was paid. I said they can keep the R785 for their services already rendered (which was only a credit report) however I would like for the R1500 to be refunded as it is a down payment for a service I cancelled.

I believe this constitutes unfair business practice and possible non-compliance with the National Credit Act. I respectfully request the NCR to investigate this matter and assist in recovering my refund.