What happens with direct debit when switching providers plz?

[#1]

Hi,

I'm going to be switching my broadband service over to another provider shortly, but just wanted to know what will happen regarding the direct debit I currently pay plusnet with.  I've spoken to the other provider and they say a new direct debit will be set up with them when I register, but i can't find any info on the plusnet side of things.  Will it automatically stop when the switchover happens or do I need to contact plusnet or my bank to do this manually?

Many thanks

[#2]

There's no problem with having two concurrent DDs, one for Plusnet and one for the new provider.

It's best to wait until you get the final bill from Plusnet. Any credit/debit will be paid, and you can then cancel the Plusnet DD.

[#3]

Hi,

Thanks for the reply, but I'm more confused now

I don't want two DDs, i want to start one and finish the other as seamlessly as possible.  I just need to know if this will happen automatically at both ends or will my intervention be required somewhere along the way?

[#4]

Anyone?

[#5]

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@richardglover65 wrote:

I don't want two DDs

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Why - what's the problem?

When you sign up to your new ISP, they will take your bank details to set up a direct debit.

Times can vary, but typically it'll be 10-14 days before the switch happens.

Meanwhile you're still with Plusnet, and when the service transfers, Plusnet will issue a final bill. Unless it happens to balance out, either you'll owe them money or they will owe you. Either way, the money will be transferred in or out of your bank account using your DD details. Once that happens, you can contact your bank to cancel the Plusnet DD.

If you cancel the DD too early, alternative arrangements will have to be agreed to settle the account. Bearing in mind Plusnet's infamous billing system even in normal times, and the current Covid-19 crisis, it's surely better to keep things simple.

[#6]

Aaah, my bad, I thought you meant I'd be paying 2 DDs every month.  My billing date with PN is the 18th so it's just gone, so presumably if it only takes 10-14 days to swap, I'll get a refund for the extra days I've not used, correct?

So, I need to cancel the DD with my bank then, it's not automatic?

[#7 · Accepted solution]

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@richardglover65 wrote:

I'll get a refund for the extra days I've not used, correct?

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As you've just paid for the period ending 18 April -

Let's say you sign up tomorrow, and your switch date is 6 May. I would think that Plusnet's final bill would be charging you for 18 days of service after the 18 April bill. Don't quote me on that - finance is not my strong point!  😉

Either way, you won't lose out, unless of course you're in mid-contract.

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So, I need to cancel the DD with my bank then, it's not automatic?

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Once evrything's settled, yes.

[#8]

IIRC, plusnet charges me in advance for the coming month, so the 18th April bill covers from then to 17th May, but it's only a few quid extra if I've got that wrong (Finance is not my forte either 😁)

Many thanks for the advice, good sir/madam.  Have a great day and stay safe 😉

[#9]

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@richardglover65 wrote:

Many thanks for the advice, good sir/madam.  Have a great day and stay safe 😉

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You're very welcome. Take care, and hope it all goes well. 🤞