Terms of use

1. Introduction

Welcome to Ascend Credit (“Ascend,” “we,” “us,” or “our”). Ascend is a financial product designed to help individuals with low or no credit build their credit score through three flexible offerings:

Credit Builder Savings Plan
Data Plan
Device Rent-to-Own Plan

By using Ascend Credit, you (“User,” “you,” or “your”) agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms of Use. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.

2. Eligibility

To use Ascend Credit, you must:

Be at least 18 years old (or the legal age of majority in your jurisdiction)
Be a resident of a country where Ascend operates
Provide accurate and complete personal and financial information
Be employed by a participating employer if using payroll deduction

3. How Ascend Credit Works

3.1 Credit Builder Savings Plan

You make fixed monthly payments into a secured account
At the end of the term, you receive the saved amount minus any applicable fees
Your payment history is reported to credit bureaus to help build your credit

3.2 Data Plan

You purchase a mobile data plan through Ascend
Each payment is reported to credit bureaus to support your credit profile
This demonstrates responsible financial behavior and aids credit growth

3.3 Device Plan (Rent-to-Own)

You pay a 25% upfront fee via payroll deduction
The balance is paid over 12 fixed monthly installments
Payments are reported to credit bureaus
After the final payment, ownership of the device transfers to you
If you miss payments, your device may be restricted or remotely locked

3.4 Payroll Deduction for Repayments

By selecting payroll deduction:

You authorise your employer to deduct your agreed monthly payment
Deductions continue until your plan is fully paid
If your employment ends or payroll deduction is interrupted, you are responsible for arranging an alternative payment method

4. User Responsibilities

As a user of Ascend Credit, you agree to:

Make all payments on time
Keep your information up to date
Use our services lawfully
Notify us if your employment or payroll arrangement changes

Failure to meet these responsibilities may result in service suspension, credit reporting penalties, or account termination.

5. Fees, Payments & Refunds

5.1 Payments

Payroll deductions take priority and are processed automatically
If a payroll deduction fails, you are responsible for arranging payment manually
Missed payments may be reported to credit bureaus

5.2 Refunds

Savings Plan: You may request an early withdrawal, subject to admin fees
Data & Device Plans: No refunds after activation. Future deductions may be cancelled, but you remain liable for any balance
Overpayments: Refunded within 14 business days after verification

6. Employer Obligations

Employers must ensure deductions are processed accurately and on time
Ascend is not liable for missed payments caused by employer errors
Employers are facilitators only and not parties to this agreement

7. Credit Reporting

Your payment history is submitted to registered credit bureaus
Positive payment behavior may improve your credit score
Late or missed payments may negatively impact your credit profile

8. Account Suspension & Termination

Your account may be suspended or closed if:

You stop paying and fail to make alternative arrangements
You provide false or fraudulent information
You misuse the platform or violate these terms

We may shift your payment method from payroll to debit order if necessary.

9. Limitation of Liability

Ascend is not liable for:

Delays or errors in payroll deductions by your employer
Missed payments due to employment termination
Changes in your credit score
Indirect or consequential damages

10. Dispute Resolution

10.1 Informal Resolution

10.2 Formal Resolution

Mediation is required before any legal action
If unresolved, disputes will be resolved by binding arbitration
Jurisdiction: South Africa

11. Privacy

Your data is protected and handled according to our [Privacy Policy]. This includes how we collect, store, and use your personal and financial data.

12. Governing Law & Employer Involvement

This agreement is between you and Ascend Credit. Your employer is not a party to this contract and is not responsible for your credit, payments, or participation in Ascend. This agreement is governed by the laws of South Africa.

13. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. Continued use of Ascend services after changes are made indicates your acceptance of the updated terms.

14. Contact Us

For any questions, support, or complaints:
support@joinascendcredit.com