No, using lay-by does not directly improve your credit score in South Africa. Lay-by agreements are not credit-based, so they are not reported to credit bureaus and do not affect your credit profile.

However, if you default on a lay-by and the retailer sends the matter to collections, it could negatively impact your credit score.

✅ No credit checks required

✅ No interest charged

❌ No direct credit score benefit

⚠️ Missed payments could affect your credit if sent to collections

If your goal is to build or improve your credit score, it’s better to use registered credit products—like credit cards, retail accounts, or personal loans—responsibly.