Reliable Direct Debit collections are vital for smooth cash flow, whether you rely on Direct Debit Facilities Management (FM) or Bureau 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 both FM clients (without a Service User Number) and Bureau (with a SUN seeking outsourced expertise).
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 FM or Bureau Provider?
- FM: For businesses without a SUN, FM lets you collect Direct Debits through a provider’s sponsorship, ideal for those new to Bacs or lacking in-house payment systems.
- Bureau: For SMEs with a SUN but without financial expertise, Bureau services offer outsourced processing, reducing risks tied to data management and cash flow.
- 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 (e.g., SUN transfer for FM or DDI adjustments for Bureau), here’s how to switch. Interbacs handles the details, tailored to your service type:
- Identify and Onboard Your New Provider
Choose Interbacs as your new FM or Bureau partner. We’ll assess your needs, whether you lack a SUN (FM) or have one but need expertise (Bureau) and set a switch date. We liaise with your old provider, extract data, and arrange a new SUN for FM or adapt existing SUN processes for Bureau.
Tip from Bacs: Allow 4-6 weeks, plus buffer time. - Complete Documentation and Approvals
Interbacs prepares the bulk change deed and forms, working with your old provider to share DDI details (FM) or processing data (Bureau). Sponsoring Payment Service Providers (PSPs) approve the transfer, ensuring compliance.
Best Practice: Use special delivery for documents to avoid delays. - Execute the Switch and Communicate
On the switch date, Interbacs submits transactions (e.g., SUN transfer for FM or DDI updates for Bureau) and confirms completion. We help you notify payers clearly, minimising disruption. Enjoy uninterrupted collections with our top-tier support.
Pro Tip: Early payer communication prevents confusion; let us handle it.
For FM, the SUN transfer minimises risk; for Bureau, we ensure seamless data transition. Non-standard switches require PSP approval, but Interbacs guides you through.
Ready to Switch to Interbacs?
Don’t let poor service hold you back. Whether you need FM for SUN-free collections or Bureau for expert outsourcing, Interbacs delivers.
Contact us for a free consultation and start collecting with confidence.
