Can I access my provident fund to settle debt?

Question:

Hi, I'm R25 000 in debt and want to know if I can withdraw part of my provident fund to settle my debt so that my family can live and I won't be blacklisted. Please help

Answer:

This will not be possible unless you plan to pay off housing debt (your mortgage) and your fund rules permit this. Otherwise, you can only access your fund when you leave your employer, or at retirement.