Top 10 UK Direct Debit Bureau & Recurring Payments Companies

If you run a UK business and are interested in collecting direct debit (BACS) or recurring payments from your customers, the following companies can help get you setup.

Below we compare 20 different companies offering their services in the UK.

Featured: GoCardless

GoCardless is the current UK leader in processing Direct Debit payments for businesses. Here are just a few of the benefits they offer and fees they charge:

• GoCardless collects direct bank payments. Meaning no card fees.
• No monthly fee
• UK and eurozone: 1% + £/€ 0.20 per transaction (£/€ 4 max)
• International: 2% + £0.20 per transaction
• Flexible payments; collect on any day of the month.
• Automatic bank account verification checks to reduce failure rates.
• Real-time notification of failed or cancelled payments.
• Collect recurring and variable payments with Bank Debit
• Payment page with your logo
• Use the ​real exchange rate powered by Wise
• Success+ reduces failed payments
• Collect one-off payments

GoCardless Website

Taking the time to sift through the best direct debit providers can really pay off, helping you land a service that’s not only the best fit for your business but also offers the best bang for your buck.

This involves diving deep into what each provider offers in terms of usability, tools, features, integration options, and costs.

We’ve simplified this process by gathering all the necessary information in this article, so let’s start with a comparison table of each provider’s pricing plans, before moving on to the individual reviews. 

Direct Debit Provider	Set up fees	UK transaction rate	International transaction rate	Monthly fee
GoCardless	/	Standard plan: 1% + £0.20 / Advanced plan: 2,25% + £0.20 / Pro plan: 1,4% + £0.20	Standard plan: 1% + £0.20 / Advanced plan: 2,25% + £0.20 / Pro plan: 1,4% + £0.20	/
London & Zurich	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	£0.20 or 1%	£29.99 or lower, customised pricing plans
AccessPay	/	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	SMB plan: £2500 yearly or £203.33 monthly / Corporate plan: £5500 or £458.33 monthly / Enterprise: Customised prices
Access Paysuite	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	0.04%	£40 or lower, customised pricing plans
SmarterPay	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	0.40%	£50 or lower, customised pricing plans
AllPay	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans
ClearDebit	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans
DebitDirect	/	80p per transaction	/	£15 monthly fee
Fast Pay	/	/	0.10%	£49 or lower, customised pricing plans
Debit Finance Collections	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans	Customised pricing plans

1. GoCardless

GoCardless is a London-based company that offers easy-to-use and safe bank payment options as an alternative to traditional card processing. With more than 85.000 businesses using its services, it’s become one of the leading global networks for bank payments. 

Here are some internationally renowned businesses that use GoCardless: 

• The Guardian
• Tripadvisor
• Nutmeg 
• DocuSign  
• HM Government 

With GoCardless, businesses can directly debit their customers’ bank accounts. This approach leads to higher payment success rates by avoiding the issues of declined card transactions or outdated card information.

This service is ideal for businesses facing one or more of the following challenges:

• Managing regular, daily recurring payments
• Dealing with delayed payments
• Handling complex manual payment systems automatically 
• Looking to cut down on card processing charges

GoCardless Features

Below is a short list of the provider’s key features: 

• Quick payments: With the GoCardless software, you’ll receive instant, one-time payments or automated regular payments directly from your customers’ bank accounts. The payments are transferred in under a few minutes.
• Worldwide availability: GoCardless users are part of a global payment network since the payment provider is available in over 30 countries worldwide, including the UK, US, Australia, Canada, and EU countries. 
• Third-party integrations: The software supports seamless integrations made available by their 350 tech software partners. Some of the most popular integrations are Xero, Intuit QuickBooks, Teamup, and Salesforce.
• User-friendly design: The interface is straightforward to navigate due to its minimal and simple design. You can choose whether to use pre-designed payment pages or develop your unique integration with their API.
• Security protection: GoCardless comes with advanced payment security features like GoCardless Success+ and GoCardless Protect+ that will detect recurring payment fraud and potentially recover up to 70% of failed payments.

GoCardless Payment Process

GoCardless has a web-based platform to which you’ll get access once you subscribe to the service. Once you have access to it, you can ask to initiate Direct Debit payments from a customer with just two clicks.

Your customers will receive an email from GoCardless containing a link to their payment authorisation page. They can simply click this link and follow the steps in a secure checkout process to give their permission.

After getting authorisation, you can automatically process customer payments by enrolling them in a payment schedule.

You’ll automatically get notified whenever a payment by your customers will be processed through GoCardless. 

Third-Party Integrations 

GoCardless has partnered with more than 350 tech companies that offer third-party integrations for accounting, finance, eCommerce, security, invoicing, CRM, web design services, and more. 

Some of the most popular ones include the following:

• Zuora 
• Intuit QuickBooks
• Salesforce
• Sage
• Xero 
• Tide
• Asperato
• Sellsy 
• TeamUp 
• Virtuagym 
• Fonteva
• Online Scout Manager 
• Billing Platform 
• Chargebee 
• Commusoft
• My Home Energy 

API Integrations 

Businesses that use GoCardless’ services have the option to integrate with GoCardless API or create a new link for creating scheduled payments. Once they create the link, they can place it as a clickable button on their site. When customers click this button, they’ll be redirected to GoCardless’ secure online payment portal where the payment will be either approved or rejected.

GoCardless supports multiple API integrations and has the following features: 

• Code snippets ready to use: GoCardless offer ready code snippets for their subscribers, ensuring an effortless integration process with their API.
• Detailed guides and references: Comprehensive documentation with easy-to-follow tutorials.
• Dedicated API support: Businesses will receive free API support from GoCardless’ team of experts for any questions during development.
• Testing options: Businesses can conduct thorough API tests in a cost-free “sandbox” environment.
• Recognised security certification: GoCardless’ security measures have been officially certified by the international ISO27001 standard.
• Adherence to GDPR: The company has a global data protection strategy that meets the rigorous GDPR requirements for personal data safety.

GoCardless Prices and Fees 

GoCardless users don’t need to pay transaction rates and fees during the first three months of using the company’s services. 

Here’s a list of the three subscription plans offered by GoCardless. 

Standard

With the Standard subscription plan, businesses can quickly collect one-off and recurring transactions. This plan is the most cost-effective compared to the other two, making it ideal for companies with lower sales revenue. 

Transaction rates and fees: 

• The rate per transaction for domestic payments is 1% and an additional £0.20. If the payment by a UK bank is higher than £2000, customers will have to pay an extra rate of 0.3% per transaction. 
• The rate per transaction for international payments is 2% and an additional £0.20. 

With this subscription plan, businesses can do the following:

• Receive international transactions from more than 30 countries worldwide, using a real-time exchange rate for each currency. 
• Use API and more than 350 third-party integrations for accounting, finances, eCommerce, web design, etc. 
• Customise the look of the sign-up application and add your branding design, logo, font, etc. 
• Receive highly secure transactions on their merchant account. The customers’ data is encrypted and later deleted by the software.  

Advanced

This pricing plan is the most popular of the three, and it’s ideal for small and mid-sized businesses. 

Transaction rates and fees: 

• The rate per transaction for domestic payments is 1,25% and an additional £0.20. If the payment by a UK bank is higher than £2000, customers will have to pay an extra rate of 0.3% per transaction. 
• The rate per transaction for international payments is 2,25% and an additional £0.20. 

The Advanced plan contains all the features of Standard with a few additional ones: 

• Minimise unsuccessful payments by using innovative strategies via Success+, the GoCardless solution for late transaction payments. 
• Instantly confirm new customers’ bank account details during checkout.
• Customise the payment process, including your payment pages and email alerts. Businesses that want to use this feature might have to pay extra.

Pro

This plan is ideal for large companies, as it’s slightly more expensive than the first two. 

Transaction rates and fees: 

• The rate per transaction for domestic payments is 1,4% and an additional £0.20. If the payment by a UK bank is higher than £2000, customers will have to pay an extra rate of 0.3% per transaction. 
• The rate per transaction for international payments is 2,4% and an additional £0.20. 

The Pro plan contains all of the features and benefits included in the Standard and Advanced plans, with several extra ones, such as: 

• Automatic fraud detection and check-up on high-risk payers with the help of the Protect+ tool. 
• Disputing chargebacks with the Protect+ tool. 

2. London & Zurich

Launched in 1998 as Card Management Services and renamed in 2012, the UK and Swiss-based company London & Zurich stands out as one of the most popular direct debit payment providers. The company has offices in London, Zurich, and Birmingham and has a long track record of assisting businesses of all sizes in managing recurring customer payments. 

In addition to direct debit services, they provide card payment options for both face-to-face and online transactions and a payment gateway for telephone payments. London & Zurich also offers budget-friendly pricing options for small and medium-sized enterprises, also known as SMEs.

Some of the worldwide-known companies that use London & Zurich’s services are: 

• MasterCard
• NatWest
• Direct Debit 
• PayPal 
• Bacs 

Direct Debit Solutions for Small and Mid-Sized Companies 

Direct Debit stands out as the most secure and convenient way for your clients to make payments to you. Here are the main features of the software customised for mid and small-sized companies: 

Advanced security and verification: The company protects both parties’ personal data with advanced security measures, including firewalls and servers in two different places. This automation simplifies transactions, and the Direct Debit Guarantee covers your customers should any issues arise.

Setup help: Unlike other providers that might promise a 24-hour setup, London & Zurich recommends a six to 21-day timeline to ensure everything is set up correctly. They offer free technical support for all their users before and after the onboarding process.

Due diligence: London & Zurich is committed to thorough due diligence with all their new clients. A rushed signup process can lead to unnecessary misunderstandings about direct debit agreements or mismatched solutions.

High-value debits: London & Zurich stands out as a rare UK-based company that handles direct debit payments exceeding £3,000. If your business requires the setup of large, recurring payments, their approachable and supportive customer service team is ready to guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free experience.

Instant payments: Payments are instantly transferred to your bank account if you have a Service User Number (SUN). The funds will reach your account within two days (48 hours) during work days if your transactions are processed with an SUN via their system. 

Direct Debit Solutions for Enterprises and Large-Sized Companies 

London & Zurich offers tailor-made direct debit solutions for large companies or enterprises. Here’s a list of some of the payment software’s features. 

Data verification and security: London & Zurich offers highly secure payment solutions as the software automatically separates the fund information from the SUNs. The company uses data servers located in the UK and additional backup data systems that will safeguard both parties’ data if there’s a sudden server breach. Also, the company’s offices have additional verification and security measures, such as theft detection software and CCTV, as well as entry verification of employees and visitors. 

Regulatory adherence: The company participates in Bacs Approved Bureau Scheme, which involves regular evaluations to ensure compliance with the highest standards set by governmental and industry bodies.

Extensive durability: London & Zurich guarantee that a backup system promptly steps in should any interruptions occur. Their software’s system architecture is engineered to scale in response to fluctuating demand, securing a guaranteed minimum uptime of approximately 99.99% per the Service Level Agreement (SLA).

Third-party integrations: The platform is designed to be compatible with various third-party integrations that can automatically streamline the transaction process.

Tailored pricing plans and 24/7 technical support: The company offers customised pricing plans for each business so their payment solutions meet every client’s specific demands. Additionally, they also provide 24/7 customer support via phone or email. 

London & Zurich Prices and Fees 

London & Zurich only offer customised pricing plans. The transaction rate can be either £0.20 or 1%, and the monthly plans are £29.99 or lower. 

They don’t share any information on the rates and fees per transaction. To get a tailor-made offer, you’ll have to fill out the application on their website, where you can write all the details about your business and what type of tools and features you’re interested in. 

Based on details from their website, the initial fees for their services are affordable, and the company provides free guidance and technical support for new users. 

3. AccessPay

Access Pay is a web-based payment software provider for UK-based businesses with headquarters in Manchester. The software connects and integrates with financial, accounting, and corporate apps to payment transaction rails and multiple banks. The software automates the transactions and creates bank retrievals. 

The company’s services are ideal for tech and finance businesses that offer professional financial and accounting services.

Some of the company’s clients are: 

• Allica Bank 
• Health Shield 
• Caledonia Investments 
• Admiral 
• Darlington Building Society 
• Sainsbury’s Bank 
• Great Places Housing Group 
• Act!onaid 

Access Pay Direct Debit Payment Solution 

One of Access Pay’s payment direct debit solutions is the Automated Bank Statement Retrieval. Businesses can directly link ERP, TMS, and similar finance applications to their bank accounts. 

With AccessPay’s data integration and transformation platform, they can gather and convert bank statements into a simple format and automatically process the transactions. 

The Automated Bank Statement Retrieval allows businesses to streamline their bank feeds automatically, multiple times daily. It creates nearly real-time reports of the business’s financial status and lets businesses manage financial data handling by: 

• Streamlining multiple payment tasks at once
• Organising and uploading bank statements in real-time
• Enhancing operational efficiency
• Improving transactions and customer data security
• Providing in-depth reports on sales revenue and payments

Access Pay Prices and Fees 

Access Pay offers three subscription plans based on the company’s size. 

Small and Mid-Sized Businesses 

The SMB pricing plans have a fixed yearly price of £2500 or £203.33 monthly. It includes modulus payment checks and payment approval reports. 

Corporate

The corporate subscription plan also has a yearly fixed price of £5500 or £458.33 monthly. In addition to the tools and features included in the subscription plan for small and mid-sized companies, this one contains a smart card or an option for extra authentication using HSM, automatic in-depth reports and analytics (BACS), and a personal manager who takes care of the plan subscriber’s client success. 

Enterprise

Access Pay doesn’t provide prices and fees for their Enterprise tailor-made subscription plan. If you’re interested in submitting an application for a personalised quote, you can do so via the company’s website. 

They also offer a free demo trial for businesses that want to test the software before subscribing to a customised plan. 

For additional information on pricing, you can contact the company’s headquarters in Manchester by phone at +441612507778 or send them an email at info@accesspay.com

4. Access PaySuite

Based in Loughborough, UK, Access PaySuite is a tech company specialising in cloud-based payment automation and bank integration solutions for private businesses and state-managed institutions of all sizes. The company offers a cloud-based platform designed to streamline and automate its users’ finance and treasury processes. 

Businesses can create the following types of payments through Access PaySuite’s platform: 

• Direct debit payments through the cloud-based platform 
• Online-based payments with most major debit and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, American Express, Visa Electron, Diners Club, etc.), digital wallets (Apple Pay), and PayPal 
• Phone payments
• In-person payments via debit and credit card terminals and machines
• Payments are processed via multiple channels at one 
• On-demand transactions 

Let’s find out more about their direct debit payment solution. 

Access PaySuite Direct Debit Service

Access PaySuite’s direct debit solution offers an efficient, rapid, and secure collection of regular payments for small and medium-sized enterprises, large corporations, or public sector organisations. More than 5,000 businesses and solo merchants use their services, and so far, over £100 million have been processed through the Direct Debit software tool.

This service can be used by:

• Freelancers or solo merchants 
• Small and mid-sized businesses 
• Large-sized businesses or corporations 
• Organisations from the public sector

Access PaySuite’s direct debit solution is equipped to handle recurring payments, regardless of volume, providing assurance in the user’s cash flow management. This helps lower operational costs while offering payment flexibility and convenience for your customers. Some of the businesses that use the direct debit services by AccessSuite are: 

• Cineworld Cinemas
• E ON 
• Virgin Atlantic 
• Age UK: Love Later Life
• Mind 
• Ovo Energy 

Access PaySuite Direct Debit Software Solution Features

Here’s a list of the software’s main features: 

Paperless payment option: Whether through the company’s direct debit cloud-based platform, API third-party integration, or manual Bacs file submissions, the payment tool ensures that each payment is processed on the user’s preferred dates and frequency. Additionally, they offer assistance in transitioning to AUDDIS for seamless, paperless Direct Debit setup. Customers can pay using flexible payment methods, including debit and credit card readers, digital wallets, and online or telephone payments.

External integrations: The direct debit tool has a pre-integrated API that allows it to be connected with ERP, finance and accounting add-ons, and CRM tools like Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, CiviCRM, SugarCRM, Xero, Sage, Quickbooks, etc.  

Payment insights: Access PaySuite’s direct debit software automatically collects detailed and extensive insights and payment data through its complete reporting suite. This allows for quick and easy payment analytics at any time, as you can download reports on successful and unsuccessful payments, and provides clear audit trails for total transparency over transactions.

High-level security: The transaction and payment processes are FAC-compliant and 100% secure from fraud and data breaches. Customers’ data is encrypted and instantly deleted once the direct debit software successfully processes the payment. 

Credit transactions: Access Paysuite’s direct debit software can be connected to Bacs Direct Credit, a highly secure tool used for regular financial transactions such as payroll, refunds, pensions, and allowances. It ensures prompt payment processing and allows businesses to manage disbursements and automatically process payments to staff and other accounts, leveraging a secure and reliable payment solution.

Access PaySuite Prices and Fees 

Access PaySuite offers two tailor-made pricing plans and fees. 

The first customisable subscription plan is for businesses that would like the company to manage their facilities. It is an ideal option for new and growing companies, so the customisable quote you’ll receive depends on the daily volume and number of transactions. 

The second subscription plan is for businesses with a Service User Number (SUN) specifically for direct debit transactions. 

The transaction rate is 0.02% per transaction, and the monthly customised pricing plans are £40 or lower. 

You can apply for a tailor-made plan for any subscription offers via this link. 

5. SmarterPay

SmarterPay was founded in 2010, and it was previously known as Income Systems. It’s a UK-based company that provides tailor-made debit and credit card payment services, catering to businesses of all sizes. The company was part of Data Interchange, a prominent B2B integration provider. It started to offer multiple payment services in the UK in 2017.

Some of the company’s customers are:

• PCS
• Coins
• Liberal Democrats
• Bristan
• Capita
• The Marketing Society
• Duo Call
• Cat Financial 
• ASL Recruitment
• Good Energy
• Debenhams 
• Equifax 

SmarterPay offers the following services: 

• Direct debit payment tool 
• Application for processing debit and credit card payments 
• Ecommerce tool for online payments 
• Payroll or purchase transaction processing 

SmarterPay Payment Solutions 

SmarterPay offers various types of payment solutions, so let’s introduce you to SmarterPay Cloud and iConnect.

SmarterPay Cloud 

SmarterPay Cloud is a user-friendly, cloud-based payment platform that allows you to manage incoming and outgoing payments from multiple venues efficiently. It can integrate with various payment schemes to help you process transactions with suppliers and staff while streamlining customer revenue collection.

The cloud tool will provide your business with the following: 

• Simple and user-friendly access via any web browser
• Secure login with multi-factor authentication or memorable word verification
• Customisable password settings with reset protocols
• IP Whitelisting for added security
• Flexible access and approval controls
• User-friendly Dashboard for easy navigation
• Automated log-out for inactive sessions
• Comprehensive help manual for guidance

iConnect 

iConnect and the Bureau software solutions are used by numerous UK-based businesses to handle their direct debit and credit payment processing seamlessly.

To use the iConnect tool, all that’s required of you is to register with Bacs and obtain a Service User Number (SUN) from your bank. 

This allows iConnect to process Bacs payment files on your behalf. Their Bureau service is crafted to simplify your payment procedures, ensuring completion of your Bacs payments after your initial file submission while adhering to all Bacs processes.

You have access to a comprehensive audit history, and Bacs reports online at any time, aiding in the resolution of any queries. Additionally, their dedicated Support team is readily available to provide further assistance. Additionally, you can always download automated client reports via iConnect.

SmarterPay Direct Debit Payment Tool

Direct Debits have been a cornerstone of revenue collection in the UK for more than half a century. According to Pay UK, they continue to be the preferred choice for businesses, with 4.5 billion collections each in 2019 and 2020. SmarterPay’s Bacs-approved platforms facilitate both direct and indirect submission through diverse channels, including software, SaaS (cloud), and bureau.

Primarily catering to utility companies, subscription services, membership organisations, charities, and various businesses, they offer comprehensive payment processing, integration, and reconciliation services. The direct debit software can be tailored and connected with your CRM, accounting system, or billing platform.

Today, many UK-based businesses opt for using direct debit payment tools due to being a budget-friendly option that reduces manual errors due to its automated payment processing. 

With this tool, businesses can collect monthly or one-time payments quickly and safely due to the software’s high level of security.

One of the most popular direct debit tools is the Direct Debit Management Solution (DDMS) by SmarterPay. It is compliant with AUDDIS standards, which means that businesses will have centralised management access to the dashboard from which they can: 

• Streamline cash flow 
• Enhance financial visibility
• Download data reports 
• Improve operational efficiency

SmarterPay’s direct debit tool is entirely cloud-based and comes equipped with flexible API, which integrates direct debit and credit payment into your existing systems. Businesses can choose which integrations to add to their tailor-made tool. Some of the most popular ones are: 

• Salesforce 
• Zuora
• Ensek 
• Xenogenix
• Opayo by Elavon
• Orbyt

Here’s a list of the main features of SmarterPay’s direct debit payment solution:

• Simplified setup and installation of the direct debit software
• Creation of mandates and customised notifications
• Modulus checking for bank details and processing date validation
• Automated setup of new instructions
• Payment plan scheduling
• Inclusion of card payments as an option
• Automated Bacs submissions
• Transaction-level integration choices
• Protocols for resubmissions
• Automatic updates for accounts
• Cancellation functionalities

Basic Direct Credit 

Businesses can use the Bacs Direct Credit method to pay suppliers or staff efficiently. It seamlessly works with all payroll systems and supports Real Time Information (RTI) feed within the transmitted file structure. 

This three-day payment cycle ensures timely and precise payments can be made through their software, cloud-based service, or bureau. You have the option to upload a file from your accounting or payroll system or automate the process using their API.

SmarterPay’s software can be set up on your system or hosted in the cloud. Both options include basic features like checking numbers, ensuring dates are correct, and sending files to Bacs using card readers or HSM. You can customise security settings and who can access what, and logging in requires two steps for added safety. Files are entirely coded before being sent. Newer features let you include RTI details in your payroll files.

SmarterPay Prices and Fees 

SmarterPay’s rate per transaction is 0.40%. Monthly pricing plans can be £50 or lower. You’ll need to get in touch with the company to receive a tailor-made offer. To do so, you can fill out the application here.

If you have any questions regarding their services or prices, you can also send an email to info@smarterpay.com.

6. Allpay

Originally named Financial Collection Services (FCS) Ltd, Allpay is a UK-based business founded in 1994 that offers swipe card payment solutions, aiding in collecting payments for local government bodies and housing associations. The company set out to streamline payment processes for its partners, and nowadays, it offers tailor-made payment services for various types of businesses and state-ruled institutions. 

Their services are suitable for the following sectors: 

Housing: Allpay collaborates with over 500 housing associations and ALMOs, encompassing 75% of the top 400 UK housing providers, boasting unparalleled expertise in enhancing payment collection rates and minimising overdue payments.

Local government institutions: The company provides automated payment systems to more than a third of the UK’s local governments. Their payment solutions cut collection expenses while boosting efficiency and enhancing customer service. Local government offices can now buy Allpay’s payment services through the updated G-Cloud system, skipping the lengthy bidding process. This system is a deal set up by the government with companies offering internet services.

Central government institutions: Allpay offers digital payment options to various government departments, such as the NHS Business Services Authority and the Ministry of Justice. By accepting cash, debit/credit cards, and direct debits, they help maximise income and broaden the payment options.

Credit institutions and unions: Credit unions can become Allpay subscribers and add money to their accounts from home or on the go with an Allpay Payment Reference Card. Additionally, members can withdraw cash from ATMs or make purchases in any location displaying the MasterCard® Acceptance Mark using a MasterCard issued by Allpay. 

Debt collectors: Partnering with Allpay, debt collecting companies can easily reach out to the debtor by sending them a custom swipecard or a bill with a barcode, encouraging them to clear their dues using Allpay’s extensive payment options voluntarily. When debtors pay using the unique reference number on their swipecard or barcoded bill, Allpay consolidates these payments. The electronic records of these transactions are then accessible online to the organisation by the next business day.

Utility providers: Allpay aids the utility sector in enhancing operational efficiency, boosting customer satisfaction, and lowering costs for their clients. 

Allpay can provide the following solutions:

• Direct debit 
• Credit or debit card payment via phone, eCommerce, in-person, mobile (digital wallet), payment links, etc. 
• Payment by cash via Paypoint, Payzone, Payout, or post office 
• Prepaid transaction processing via prepaid portals
• Open banking 

Allpay Direct Debit Tool 

Allpay’s direct debit tool for automated payments is a cloud-based, cost-effective, and hassle-free method for processing recurring transactions from numerous clients. It offers the versatility to handle transactions any day of the month and supports various billing cycles. 

To learn more or to request a pricing estimate, you can reach out to Allpay’s customer service at the following number: 0330 135 9515.

Here’s a list of the direct debit software’s main features: 

Automated client correspondence: Businesses can correspond with clients automatically by creating a mailing list. They can also send their customers automated text messages via mobile whenever there’s a pending transaction or a debt they must cover until a specific date. 

In-depth data reports: The software creates automatic daily data reports on payments and transactions. Businesses can download reports to review payments in a specific timeframe. They can filter the date, month, and year for each report. 

Free training for subscribers: In 2017, Allpay earned a qualification for Bacs payments. After that, the company started a seasonal training course called “Understanding Paperless Direct Debits” to teach businesses and solo merchants how to use direct debits without needing paper. Businesses subscribed to Allpay’s monthly plan can participate in the course. 

Secure payments: The company has signed a Guarantee for Direct Debit services to secure each payment from fraud. Customers’ data stays encrypted during the transaction process and is automatically deleted once the transaction is successful. Allpay will also refund their customers if there’s an error during the payment process.

Allpay Prices and Fees 

Allpay does not share any information on their pricing plans on the official website. The company offers tailor-made solutions for their clients. To get a customised price, you can contact their customer support team by phone: 0330 135 9515. You can also email them at enquiries@allpay.net or submit your application here. 

7. ClearDebit

Founded in 1993 in London, ClearDebit offers various direct debit services, including a Bacs Bureau and staff training, to help businesses receive payments, comply with regulations, expand their customer base, and forecast cash flow.

ClearDebit has more than 1000 customers based in the UK, and about £14.2 billion is processed yearly with the help of their direct debit tools. 

The company works with some of the biggest brands across various sectors, which include: 

• Unison
• Sefe
• Cornwall Air Ambulance
• The British Horse Society
• Royal Botanic Gardens Kew 
• Family for every child
• Royal College of Nursing 

In addition to providing customers with direct debit payment solutions, the company also offers contingency and consultancy or advisory services.  

ClearDebit Payment Solutions 

ClearDebit offers multiple direct debit solutions. 

Bacs Bureau

Bacs Bureau is a management feature that ClearDebit’s staff uses to process and take care of direct debit payments and operations for their clients. This service is ideal for:

• Companies looking to simplify recurring payments for their clients
• Organisations that don’t have a specialised Direct Debit team
• Companies with a limited internal understanding of Direct Debit mechanisms
• Any company that already owns or is currently in the process of acquiring a Service User Number (SUN)
• Businesses requiring the ability to process both fixed and fluctuating payment amounts

ClearDebit’s Bacs Bureau makes sure businesses have a steady flow of money. It’s a cost-effective and user-friendly solution that allows businesses to get their money the same day they collect it. They can see detailed reports easily, while ClearDebit’s experts handle everything to make sure the transactions meet all the rules. 

File Maker Feature

File Maker is a tool that can help you get any type of bank file to the format your bank’s electronic funds transfer system needs in just a few minutes. File Maker automatically arranges your data and collects it so you can download it any time you’d like. The tool supports all kinds of formats and works well with all the commonly used file types. 

Bank Validation Tool 

When businesses start processing direct debit payments, it’s crucial to make sure the cardholders’ information is 100% correct. For example, in case you get the wrong details, you’ll end up with payments that don’t go through and spend a lot of time fixing these issues.

This is why the Bank Validation tool for direct debit payment is helpful. It lets you check a new customer’s bank information right when they sign up, leading to fewer payment failures.

With Bank Validation, you’ll get the following: 

• No manual mistakes when people sign up to use your platform 
• Automatically detects wrong information that causes payments to miss
• The tool can be added to an already existing website or mobile app 
• Automatic updates and security protection 
• Follows special checking rules set by all major banks

Direct Debit Software Solutions 

ClearDebit offers various software solutions for direct debit payments. 

Online Direct Debit Software 

The online software is ideal for companies looking to increase their sales revenue and daily cash flow, and get more customers on board. Here’s a list of how this cloud-based software can help in daily operations: 

• Increase the number of user registrations by improving the interface design and customer experience at the same time
• Automate and digitalise the payment process, which leads to a more sustainable and user-friendly work approach  
• Eliminate the need for manually entering any type of data
• Instant address and bank checks to prevent unexpected payment fraud or errors
• Automatically confirm new sign-ups and use Scheme Rules for compliance
• Help customers pay or sign up for services faster with the 24/7 customer support line 

The forms created with this direct debit software are fully customisable, so businesses can add colour palettes and logos of their preferences. Additionally, they can update the lists of the services and products and their prices whenever they want to from any type of laptop, desktop computer, smartphone, or tablet.

Mosaic Software 

ClearDebit offer direct debit management software for businesses that provide in-person services. There are two types of Mosaic Software: 

• Mosaic Submit: This is a straightforward and user-friendly software for sending direct debit files straight to Bacs and getting reports in return. It’s a suitable solution for solo merchants or small to mid-size businesses. If you’re already using a CRM to handle customer information, payments, or banking details and you are just looking for a simple method to forward those payments to Bacs or our Bureau, then Mosaic Submit is the perfect tool for you. It’s quick, verified, and provides a complete audit trail.
• Mosaic Managed: This software solution can handle direct debit payments for companies that are interested in overseeing and executing every necessary step for Direct Debit transactions. The software makes sure payments are automatically collected daily by providing the right advance notice letters and transaction codes before directly processing them with the help of Bacs.

ClearDebit Prices and Fees 

ClearDebit doesn’t provide information on their services’ prices and fees. To get a tailor-made offer, you’ll need to submit an application via their website.

You can also call +4401737826957 or email them at sales@cleardebit.com for more inquiries on their products and their availability. 

To keep up with the latest social media updates by ClearDebit, follow their LinkedIn profile. 

8. Debit Direct

Direct Debit is a Manchester-based company that collects and manages direct debit customer payments. The company offers budget-friendly monthly subscriptions with fixed rates and fees. Their services are suitable for small, mid, and large-sized businesses looking to improve their direct debit payment process.

Their payment software is regulated and compliant with FCA’s regulations, and it can be used both by regular and high-risk businesses. If the business using Direct Debit gives high-risk services, then they’ll have to pay an additional deposit, or the company will take a specific percentage amount from their transactions. 

Some of the company’s clients are: 

• Strategic Thinking
• Pop! Studios 
• Inteleweb 

Direct Debit Features 

Here’s a list of some of Direct Debit’s payment solution’s features: 

Automatic transaction processing: The payment software automatically collects and processes payments, and transfers them to the business’ bank account in the following days. Businesses can monitor customer transactions and get a yearly, monthly, or weekly analysis of all the payments. 

Optional transaction collection: Businesses can choose to collect payments by setting up a recurring timetable or by creating an ad-hoc payment schedule whenever they want to. 

Steady cash flow: The payment solution is secure and verified and helps businesses have a steady sales stream and receive cash flow instantly on their merchant account. 

Successful transactions: Direct Debit has a high success achievement rate of approximately 95%. 

Instant refunds and cancellations: Businesses can instantly cancel a transaction whenever a customer asks. Also, customers will get instant refunds from Direct Debit if there’s an irregular or incorrect transaction. The customer’s bank can make an indemnity claim for a full refund if there’s a transaction error and an incorrect amount of money is processed through Direct Debit’s payment software. 

Instant payment transfers: Direct Debit users can choose if they want to receive payments in their bank account the same day by paying an additional fee for the CHAPS process. They have to ask the company to use this optional feature. If they don’t choose to use it, they’ll receive the funds in their bank account approximately five days after the software processes them. 

Direct Debit Prices and Fees 

Direct Debit provides the following information on the prices and fees for their services: 

• £15 monthly fee
• Fixed rate of 80p for each transaction 
• One-time £1 rate per payer

Only companies that have a successful application will get feedback in about two to three days after sending it to Direct Debit for review. If their application is successful, they can open a merchant account via this link and use their services for free for the first 30 days. After the free trial period, they can decide if they want to continue their subscription or not. 

If you have any inquiries and would like to get in touch with the company’s customer support, you can send them a message via this link. 

Also, you can give them a call at  03300881232 or +447916640608 or send them an email at info@debitdirect.co.uk. 

9. FastPay

Founded in 2009 and nowadays based in Los Angeles, FastPay is an Iraqi user-friendly and secure digital wallet that can be used by downloading a mobile app. 

The app is used by millions of individuals for multiple purposes such as shopping, topping up mobile credit and internet, transferring money, paying bills, etc. Instead of using cash, you can simply use the FastPay digital wallet to process transactions from your smartphone. The digital wallet also allows users to buy digital vouchers for iTunes, Google Play, PlayStation, Xbox, etc.

FastPay Features

Here’s a list of the main features of FastPay’s direct debit app: 

Verification and security: FastPay users need to verify to use the digital wallet by typing a password for one use and creating an account. They need to type a unique 4-number PIN whenever they want to make a transaction via the app.

QR code button: Users can tap on the QR code button on the main screen to scan their wallet and pay in stores, withdraw cash at agent locations, or send money to other FastPay users. 

Automatic notifications and alerts: The app will send notifications and alerts for the latest FastPay activities and special deals. To turn on this feature, you’ll need to tap the Inbox icon at the bottom of the app’s dashboard. 

Transactions analytics: The app has a history folder where users have access to their entire payment history and a monthly transaction report.

PCI-DSS compliant: The app’s software is PCI-DSS and PA DSS compliant and keeps cardholders’ data safe from data breaches and protected from malware and fraud. 

Fund transfer: You can use FastPay’s mobile app to send funds to other FastPay users that are located worldwide. Additionally, companies can use FastPay’s account specifically tailored for business purposes in case they need to pay salaries to their staff members monthly, weekly, or daily. 

Online bookings: Business users can create online bookings through the dashboard of FastPay’s mobile app.

FastPay Prices and Fees 

You can download the mobile application FastPay Wallet on Google Store or Apple’s App Store for free. The transaction rate is 0.10%, and the monthly subscription plans are £49 or lower. 

If you have any inquiries on FastPay’s services and would like to find out more about their pricing or get a customised subscription plan, you can contact the company via phone at 0662310000, or send them an email at info@fast-pay.iq. 

You can also follow the company’s LinkedIn profile to keep in touch with news on their services and products. 

10. Debit Finance Collections 

Debit Finance Collections, also known as DFC, is a Newcastle-based company that offers direct debit payment solutions for small, mid, and large-sized businesses, especially companies that offer fitness, health, and sports services. The company is owned by Xplor, an international payment provider. 

Direct Debit Management Features

Since DFC is a company with many years of expertise in providing tailor-made payment solutions for businesses in the health and fitness industry, they prioritise creating direct debit payment solutions as they are crucial for subscription-based services. 

Here’s a short list of the main features of DFC’s direct debit feature: 

• Secure payment collection: DFC offers a high level of consumer protection, providing members with confidence and offering you the adaptability essential for a thriving subscription model.
• Enable consistent payment collection: The company’s user-friendly software automatically saves direct debit collections on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis. This allows you to give your members the option to choose their payment schedules, minimizing the likelihood of missed payments.
• Quick and adaptable payment integration: Regardless of whether you’re already using Direct Debit for subscriptions, employing a different payment system, or just starting out, DFC is ready to assist. Start swiftly with professional guidance, versatile software compatibility, and the option for a complete business management solution.
• In-depth insights and reports: DFC provides the critical data necessary to manage your organization effectively. Through their online platform, you’ll gain insight into member subscriptions, while their range of standard and bespoke reports offers the analytics required to boost your operations.
• 24/7 expert support: DFC offers customer support for all of their clients who are looking for easy ways to manage their customer payments or membership accounts.

Debit Finance Collections Prices and Fees 

Debit Finance Collections doesn’t provide any information on their prices and fees on the website. For inquiries, you can call them at the following numbers: 

• Customer support: 01908752079
• Membership inquiries: 01908752078

If you’d like to test out DFC’s tools and features, you can book a free demo by filling out the online application on the following link. 

What Makes These Companies the Best Direct Debit Providers?

The companies that made our cut in this article are considered the best direct debit providers for UK-based businesses for the following reasons: 

• Some companies that made this list, such as Access Pay and Access PaySuite, Direct Debit, and Clear Debit, can create custom pricing plans, depending on the company’s size, sales revenue, and their specific wants and needs.
• Many of the pricing plans offered by the companies on this list are cost-effective and budget-friendly. Small businesses with limited daily sales revenue won’t have to spend a fortune to receive a high-value service from companies such as FastPay or GoCardless. 
• The software payment tools by all direct debit providers on the list can be customised with pre-installed integrations for accounting and finance management tools, such as Xero, Sage, Quickbooks, etc. 
• All of the direct debit providers on this list offer services for UK-based businesses. However, in addition to accepting UK-issued payment methods, all of them accept payments processed via international credit or debit cards, digital wallets, etc. 

Conclusion

After reading our review, you can see how each direct debit payment provider brings something unique to the table, especially when it comes to prices and fees. 

Suppose you’d like to choose the most budget-friendly option for your business. In that case, it’s essential to consider what payment systems you currently use and determine what additional features can benefit your company and customers. 

If you simply want to add direct debit payments to your current setup, then deciding on a provider is simpler. Additionally, consider how these services can help improve your customers’ payment experience and potentially streamline your business operations.