Reliable Direct Debit collections are vital for smooth cash flow, whether you rely on Direct Debit Facilities Management (FM) services. If your current provider’s costs, delays, or poor support are dragging you down, you’re not alone; councils and SMEs across the UK have been reaching out to Interbacs, frustrated with underwhelming Bacs service.
Switching is simpler than ever, thanks to Bacs’ streamlined process, and we’re here to make it effortless for FM clients (without a Service User Number). This guide, inspired by the official Bacs "Little Guide to Switching Facilities Management Provider," breaks the switch into 3 easy steps. Our team drives the process, minimising your effort while delivering cost-effective, secure, and reliable Bacs solutions.
Why Switch Your DDFM Provider?
- Common Pain Points: Soaring costs, sluggish support, and unreliable systems disrupt operations and citizen services. Switching opens the door to better efficiency, security, and support.
Bacs encourages fair competition, and the guide validates that switching is low-risk when done right.
The Simple 3-Step Solution to Switching Bacs Providers
Based on Bacs’ recommended bulk change options, here’s how to switch. Interbacs handles the details, tailored to your service type:
- Contact Interbacs and Notify Your Current Provider
Get in touch with us at Interbacs to discuss your needs. We'll guide you through the initial setup, including concluding contractual arrangements and agreeing on a suitable switch date and type (such as bulk change with transfer of SUN, which is our recommended option for simplicity).
At this stage, you'll also advise your existing FM provider of the planned switch. Our experts will handle the coordination, ensuring everything aligns with Bacs rules and best practices.
- Prepare the Documentation and Data Transfer
Once the switch details are agreed, we'll work with you and your current provider to prepare the necessary documentation, such as the bulk change deed—a standard legal form that underpins the transfer without any modifications.
Your existing provider will supply an extract of relevant data (like Direct Debit Instructions), and we'll complete forms like the notification of change. If needed, we'll involve sponsoring Payment Service Providers (PSPs) to set up or transfer a Service User Number (SUN).
This step focuses on careful planning to avoid delays, typically taking four to six weeks, but we'll factor in extra time for a smooth transition.
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Execute the Switch
We will liaise with your existing provider to ensure that all transactions are sent on the switch date for a seamless transfer. Depending on the chosen option, this may involve submitting AUDDIS transactions to cancel and recreate Direct Debits if required, but our preferred bulk change approach minimises this.
We'll notify payers in advance to avoid confusion, minimising disruption and ensuring uninterrupted collections. Throughout, our team prioritises security and efficiency, so you can focus on your business while we handle the details.
Ready to Switch to Interbacs?
Switching to Interbacs means gaining a partner committed to superior support, lower costs, and reliable Direct Debit processing. If you're ready to make the move or have questions, contact our team today; we're here to simplify the process for you.
Contact us for a free consultation and start collecting with confidence.
