A direct debit is a method that a allows a seller to receive a payment directly from the consumer’s bank account. To activate it, the company sends the authorisation given by the customer to the bank, and the payment for the invoiced services will become automatic.

The consumer can also sign up using an ATM, and, for that, must request the creditor identifier from the supplier company in question.

Sometimes, some providers impose payment by direct debit. However, be aware that companies cannot impose this payment method exclusively and should always present alternatives to customers. Access to certain discounts might depend on adhering to a direct debit.

For the proper use of this means of payment, and to prevent debits of wrong amounts, you can impose the following restrictions on debit authorisations: A maximum amount per payment - in this way, amounts higher than the established amount will not be debited , also a time limit, in terms of the date until which the charge should occur and its frequency.

Additionally, if an unauthorised debt occurs, you have a maximum of 13 months to complain to the bank. The banking institution must refund the amount unduly charged to you unless the supplier or the bank itself proves the existence of a debit authorisation.

Remember to check the debit authorisations in your bank account, cancelling those related to contracts that have already ended. Set limits on the amounts that each entity can debit, and don’t forget to check your bank transactions regularly, as this is the only way you will be able to detect an irregular debt and act in time to be reimbursed.

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