Build one payment calendar
List the service provider, normal amount, collection date, account used, contract end date and cancellation process. Keep a small buffer for amounts that vary.
Understand DebiCheck
A DebiCheck mandate is electronically approved with your bank at the start of a contract. Check the business name, amount and collection terms before accepting. If agreed details change, you may need to approve the change.
Handle problems quickly
If an amount is wrong, contact the service provider and bank promptly. Disputing a collection does not automatically cancel the underlying contract or money lawfully owed, so deal with both the payment and the contract.
A simple example
If salary arrives on the 25th and six debit orders run between the 26th and 1st, keep that money separate immediately instead of relying on the month-end balance.
Common mistakes
- Approving a mandate without checking the amount and business
- Spending money reserved for collections
- Stopping a debit order but ignoring the contract
Quick checklist
- List each debit order and collection date
- Keep mandates and cancellation confirmations
- Review bank transactions every month
- Report an unauthorised collection promptly
Frequently asked questions
What is the main takeaway from how to manage debit orders?
Approving a debit order is not the same as forgetting it; review the amount and date every month.
What should I do first?
List each debit order and collection date
What is a common mistake?
Approving a mandate without checking the amount and business
Use the numbers, not a guess
Try a free calculator or continue with a related South African guide.
Related guides
Reviewed on 27 July 2026. Official links below are the source of current legal, tax or regulatory facts; practical guidance is general.