Getting started
Just follow four simple steps!
Step 1 - Contact the organisation you wish to pay
Get in touch with them and ask to set up a Direct Debit. They'll arrange for you to complete a Direct Debit Instruction. This could be done by post, over the phone or online.
Step 2 - Complete the Direct Debit Instruction
You'll need to provide:
- Your name and address
- Name and address of your bank or building society
- Your bank or building society account number
- The branch sort code of your bank or building society (see your cheque book)
- The name(s) on the account.
The organisation will update its payment records and forward the instruction onto your bank or building society. They'll then collect the agreed amounts on the agreed dates.
Step 3 - Check the advance notice details
The organisation will give you advance notice of collection dates and amounts, whether you set up a Direct Debit by telephone, internet or using a paper form. Check these details are correct and contact them straight away if you want to query anything.
Step 4 - Relax
Apart from making sure you've enough money in your account when payment is due, there's nothing more you have to do!
Take a tip from Sal Smart, though: "We like to keep an eye on our bank statement to check the Direct Debits are going out as agreed."
