Here are some questions frequently asked by students. More common questions and answers on Direct Debit can be found by clicking on Did you know?
Do student bank accounts give me access to Direct Debits?
Many include a Direct Debit facility within their standard package, but it is worth checking as you consider the options.
How can I use Direct Debits to manage my student finances?
Direct Debit is a great way to take control so you know on which date each month key payments will be made. It can also save you over £200 a year when used across a range of regular bills.
Are there specific student discounts for using Direct Debits?
TV licence runs a system that can save students money. If you buy a licence at the start of the academic year (September) and pay by Direct Debit, you can claim back your final quarter over the following summer months when you return to live at home - saving you a quarter of your annual bill. Visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk/information/students.jsp for more details.
I need to pay household bills for a shared house with friends, what's the best way of organising this?
Set up a joint account, each pay in a fair share and then agree which bills the account will be used to fund. Arrange to pay them by Direct Debit and then sit back knowing they won't be forgotten.
Mum and dad help me with living expenses while I'm at university, how can we organise this?
Talk to them about how they would like to help. It may be that they fund certain living expenses such as rent and the major utilities. If so, ask them to pay the bills for you by Direct Debit. That way they will know you're not homeless and you might be able to benefit from one of the discounts offered to Direct Debit payers - which could mean more money for you in the long run!
