What is a debit order and DebiCheck? (+ how do they work?)

Managing your finances is tough enough without worrying about surprise deductions.

That’s why debit orders and systems like DebiCheck exist—to simplify things.

Here’s how it works.

 

What is a debit order?

A debit order is an agreement where a service provider deducts money directly from your bank account on a specified date. This ensures recurring payments, like loans or subscriptions, are automated and hassle-free. Debit orders can be authorised in advance or, in rare cases, unauthorised and subject to dispute.

Debit orders come in three forms:

• Authorised debit orders: The account holder consents in advance to regular deductions.
• Enhanced authorisation debit orders: Require real-time electronic approval, like DebiCheck, adding extra security and reducing unauthorised transactions.
• Unauthorised debit orders: Occur without valid approval and can be disputed with the bank.

 

Debit orders are convenient. But, with automated deductions, there’s some form of risk. That’s where  DebiCheck debit orders come in.

We’ll get to DebiChecks in a second.

 

 

How does a debit order work?

Debit orders work by authorising a service provider to withdraw a specified amount from your bank account on an agreed date. Banks facilitate this automated process, ensuring payments are consistent and timely. With DebiCheck, customers must first approve the mandate electronically, enhancing security and control.

 

What is a DebiCheck debit order?

A DebiCheck debit order is a secure payment system that requires customers to electronically approve mandates before money is deducted. Introduced by the South African Reserve Bank, it provides greater transparency and reduces the risk of unauthorised payments. Approval is done via digital platforms like banking apps, internet banking, ATMs, or phone calls.

This process ensures that:

• All transactions are authorised, reducing the risk of fraud or disputes.
• Approval can be done via digital platforms like banking apps, internet banking, ATMs, or phone calls.

 

Think of it as giving a virtual thumbs-up every time a new payment agreement is set up.

Here’s how it works.

 

DebiCheck process

The DebiCheck process begins when a service provider requests a mandate from the customer. This mandate outlines:

• The amount;
• The frequency; and
• The duration of the debit order.

 

Customers then receive a notification from their bank, prompting them to approve or decline the request. Approval can be done through several channels, such as:

• A banking app,
• Internet banking,
• An ATM, or
• A phone line.

 

Once authorised, the debit order is active, and payments proceed as per the mandate.

Let’s take a closer look at how you can approve or cancel a DebiCheck if needed.

 

 

How to approve DebiCheck

Approving a DebiCheck mandate is simple and can be done through different channels, depending on the bank’s services: through a banking app by selecting and approving the mandate, through internet banking by logging in and confirming the details, at an ATM by choosing the DebiCheck option and following the prompts, or over the phone by verifying the mandate through a call or SMS.

Approve a DebiCheck mandate by using:

• A banking app
• A phone line
• Internet banking
• An ATM

 

Here are the steps for each method.

 

Using a banking app

Most banks in South Africa offer mobile apps with DebiCheck functionality. After receiving a notification about a pending DebiCheck mandate:

1. Log into the banking app.
2. Navigate to the DebiCheck approval section.
3. Review the mandate details.
4. Approve the mandate by following the app’s on-screen instructions.

 

Using a phone line

Some banks provide the option to approve DebiCheck mandates through a call. You may:

1. Receive a phone call or SMS prompt from your bank to verify the mandate details.
2. Follow the instructions provided to confirm approval.

 

Tip: Ensure the caller or SMS is from a verified bank source before proceeding.

 

Using internet banking

Internet banking platforms also allow for DebiCheck approvals.

1. Log into your bank’s online portal.
2. Locate the section for pending DebiCheck mandates.
3. Review the details of the request.
4. Approve it if the information matches the agreement with your service provider.

 

Using an ATM

For customers without access to online platforms, some banks allow DebiCheck approvals via ATMs.

1. Visit an ATM belonging to your bank.
2. Insert your card and select the option for DebiCheck approval.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to review and approve the mandate.

 

Each method ensures flexibility and accessibility, making it easy to manage and control your DebiCheck debit orders.

 

How to cancel a DebiCheck

Cancelling a DebiCheck mandate starts with informing the service provider to stop requesting payments. After that, contact the bank to complete the cancellation. Some banks may require confirmation through an app, a phone call, or an in-person visit. Cancelling the mandate does not remove any outstanding obligations to the service provider.

Remember, cancelling the payment doesn’t end the agreement or cancel the service. Here’s what happens…

 

What happens when you cancel a DebiCheck?

When you cancel a DebiCheck:

• The mandate becomes inactive, and no further payments can be debited.
• Cancelling the DebiCheck does not cancel the original payment agreement.
• The original agreement must be cancelled directly with the service provider.

 

If a DebiCheck is cancelled without cancelling the original agreement, the service provider may request payment through other methods or take legal action if the amounts remain unpaid.

This could go as debt collection, garnishment, or repossession.

 

Frequently asked questions

Can you reverse a DebiCheck debit order?

Yes, a DebiCheck debit order can be reversed if it is processed incorrectly or without proper authorisation. The bank must be contacted within 40 days of the transaction, along with proof of the error. Reversing approved mandates is more difficult due to the pre-authorisation process.

If you notice an incorrect deduction, don’t wait—get in touch with your bank ASAP.

 

Can I dispute a DebiCheck?

A DebiCheck debit order can be disputed if there is evidence of fraud, error, or unauthorised approval. The process begins by contacting the service provider. If the issue remains unresolved, it can be escalated to the bank for investigation. Fraud cases should also be reported to authorities such as SAFPS or FSCA for further action.

If you want to dispute a debit order or a DebiCheck, make sure to have your evidence ready—banks work best with solid proof.

 

Final thoughts

Debit orders and DebiCheck are tools designed to simplify your financial life, but they work best when you fully understand how to manage them. Whether you’re approving a mandate or cancelling one, being informed puts the power in your hands.

Take charge of your payments, avoid disputes, and ensure your money works for you—not the other way around.

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