Five Questions About: Direct debits

 

Simon Read
Friday 14 December 2012 23:00 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

These are just a way to pay bills, aren't they?

Yes. You can set up direct debits to allow firms, such as phone companies and energy suppliers, to collect the money you owe them automatically from your account.

So what's new?

There's a new Android phone app from BACS, the organisation behind direct debits, which allows you to control and organise all your payments on one screen.

How will that help me?

You'll be able to list all your direct debits together with payment dates, amounts and details of what they're for. You'll be able to see when payments fall due and ensure that they won't put you into the red. You can also set up payment reminders and alerts. The aim is simply to give you greater control over the cash going in and out of your account. Of course, it may also help you spot any rogue or old direct debits you've forgotten about and need to cancel and show how much you're paying out on regular bills.

Will it allow me to change direct debits?

No. Because of security reasons the app does not allow users to amend or cancel direct debits. For that you'll need to go to your online account or talk to your bank.

How do I get the app?

You can download it free from the Play Store.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in