Copyright © 2010 Jamie Lyons



Direct Debit is a payment form which has become integral to the banking of individuals and companies alike. The simplicity with which regular sums can be taken from a customer account and deposited into that of a company or organisation has resulted in a huge uptake in the service, particularly by larger organisations who charge monthly fees of varying denominations: such as telecoms providers, energy suppliers and council departments.



The extent to which Direct Debit has pervaded the banking activity of the majority is itself a compelling reason for companies currently without the facility to investigate implementing it. In order to outline precisely why it is indispensible to organisations who take regular payment however, it is worth considering the benefits it offers to both organisations who receive payment using it and individuals who pay with it:



Spreading Costs



Direct Debit allows individuals to purchase, or pay bills in monthly instalments as opposed to larger lump sums. As a consequence of this, the customer benefits from a more affordable means of payment and a higher level of control over their outgoings. The company benefits from this too, as the perception that an item or service is more affordable is more likely to induce a sale.



Regular Payment Dates and Automated Payments



With Direct Debit payment is automated and leaves the customer's account on pre-set dates. The advantage to the company here goes without saying. Having a steady, predictable stream of cash entering the company negates the need to involve debt recovery specialists (in the vast majority of cases) and also allows for more accurate forecasting. On the side of the consumer, the benefit of this attribute is that it allows them to either forget about the payment, as it will automatically be made on their behalf, or if money is tight, allow them to accurately budget, safe in the knowledge that a specified figure is due to be deducted on a specified date.



Security



Direct Debit rightly holds a solid reputation for it's security as a means of funds transfer. From the perspective of the customer it guarantees that their bank details are safely and securely stored and that only the agreed or owed figure will be taken. From the stand-point of the company or organisation taking payment, Direct Debit provides a considerably more reliable means of payment than cheque. In short Direct Debit serves as a by-word for secure payment.



As exemplified by the factors above, Direct Debit provides not only peace of mind to both parties, but also allows for more accurate budgeting and forecasting, whilst granting a greater level of control over personal and company finances for all involved. Access to Direct Debit as a means of payment for your company's products or services may also be more affordable and obtainable than you think.

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Written by Jamie Lyons- SEO Manchester on behalf of First Capital Cashflow Direct Debit.