SEPA direct debits have become an essential tool for automating recurring payments such as subscriptions, subscriptions or invoices. With online solutions, this process is even simpler, faster and more secure, offering an optimal experience for both companies and their customers. Let's find out what a SEPA direct debit is, why adopt it and how to set it up efficiently.
What is a SEPA direct debit?
A SEPA direct debit is an automated payment method used to debit a bank account, with the customer's prior authorization (SEPA mandate). When managed online, the entire process - from obtaining the mandate to managing payments - is dematerialized.
Key figures
The most recent data on SEPA direct debits comes from the first half of 2023. According to the Banque de France:
- Direct debits accounted for 15% of cashless payments in the euro zone.
- The total number of cashless payments rose by 10.1% to 67 billion transactions.
- The total value of cashless payments was 111,400 billion euros.
Note: Cashless payments are transactions carried out by book entry, such as transfers, direct debits or card payments, as opposed to cash payments.
The SEPA zone covers 36 countries, including all EU member states, as well as countries such as Switzerland, Norway and Monaco.
These figures demonstrate the growing importance of SEPA direct debits for recurring payments, and their widespread adoption across Europe.
Why adopt this method?
SEPA direct debits offer many advantages for companies and customers alike:
- Time-saving: Everything is automated, from mandate collection to payment execution.
- Enhanced security: bank data is protected in accordance with SEPA and RGPD standards.
- Payment reliability: Transactions are carried out on fixed dates, reducing delays or oversights.
- International coverage: A unified solution for all transactions in Europe and SEPA zone countries.
- Improved customer relations: simple, effortless payment enhances customer satisfaction.
How do I set up a SEPA direct debit online?
1. Obtain a SEPA digital mandate
The SEPA mandate is a document authorizing a company to debit a customer's account. Online, it can be signed electronically via a secure platform. Essential information to be collected includes :
- Customer name
- IBAN and BIC
- Electronic consent
2. Use a sampling management platform
Solutions such as Easytransac centralize the management of mandates and payments. They offer features such as :
- Direct debit planning (frequency and amount)
- Automatic notifications before each debit
- Integration with CRM and billing tools
3. Automate and track transactions
Once the mandates have been validated, payments can be automated according to the defined frequency (monthly, quarterly, etc.). An online interface enables you to :
- View completed and upcoming transactions
- Managing failed or cancelled payments
- Export reports for precise monitoring
4. The advantages of choosing Easytransac
When you choose Easytransac, you benefit from a number of advantages:
- All-in-one solution: collect mandates, schedule direct debits and track payments from an intuitive dashboard.
- Maximum security: Compliance with SEPA and RGPD regulations.
- Flexibility: Manage one-off or recurring direct debits with parameters tailored to your needs.
- Personalized support: A team of experts at your disposal to assist you.
>> Register for free and start receiving payments
Conclusion
Adopting SEPA direct debit is a strategic decision for any company wishing to optimize its recurring payment management. Simple, secure and efficient, these modern tools meet customer expectations and enable precise monitoring of transactions. Want to go further? Contact our teams to discover a solution tailored to your needs.
