What is a Direct Debit?
A Direct Debit can be a good way to make sure your household bills and other regular outgoings are paid on time.
When arranging a Direct Debit, you agree terms like the payment date and amount with the company billing you. This gives them permission to automatically take payments from your account on an agreed schedule - for example, each month.
How to set up a Direct Debit
1. Get your details together
You'll need: your name and address, your bank's name and address, your account number and sort code.
2. Fill in the form
This could be online, or you may need to request a physical form from the company. There might also be an option to give your details over the phone.
3. Finalise set-up
The company will arrange the Direct Debit using the details you've provided.
4. Payments begin
The first payment will leave your account on the date you agreed and continue until the Direct Debit is cancelled.
How to amend or cancel a Direct Debit
To amend a Direct Debit, you'll need to contact the company directly.
If you want to cancel a Direct Debit altogether, it's usually quickest to do it in online or mobile banking. You need to cancel at least 2 working days before your next payment is due, otherwise the money may still be taken from your account. Before the final payment date, you should also inform the company to make sure they end the contract.
Cancel with online banking
1. Log on
Log on to online banking - you'll need your Secure Key.
2. Find your Direct Debit
Select 'Direct Debits' from the quick links section, choose the relevant account and find the Direct Debit you want to cancel.
3. Select 'More information'
Select the 'More information' icon.
4. Cancel your Direct Debit
Choose 'Cancel' and follow the on-screen instructions.
Cancel with mobile banking
1. Log on
Log on to the app and select the relevant account.
2. Find your Direct Debit
Choose 'Manage bills' then select the Direct Debit you want to cancel.
3. Cancel your Direct Debit
Select 'Cancel Direct Debit' and 'confirm' to complete the cancellation.
Other ways to cancel
It's usually quickest to cancel a Direct Debit online or in the app, but you can also cancel by phone or in person.
By phone
Call us on on 03457 404 404 with the details of the Direct Debit you want to cancel. We're open between 08:00 and 20:00 every day.
At a branch
If you're cancelling your Direct Debit in person, make sure you have some identification such as a passport or driving licence.
Find your nearest branch
Frequently asked questions
Explore more
Request a Direct Debit refund
If a Direct Debit doesn’t look quite right, you can request a refund in the HSBC UK Mobile Banking app.
Standing order support
How to set up, amend or cancel a standing order.
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International payments
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