Direct debit
Direct debit is a payment method where the payee collects the amount directly from the payer's bank account — with their consent.
Direct Debit
With the direct debit procedure (also known as Direct Debit or debit authorisation), the payee collects the amount owed directly from the payer's bank account. This requires the written or electronic consent of the account holder — the so-called direct debit mandate (in Switzerland: LSV+ or Débit Direct).
In Switzerland, there are two variants: LSV+ (direct debit system) for German-speaking banks and Débit Direct (DD) for French- and Italian-speaking banks. Both function similarly: the payee submits the direct debit to their bank, and the amount is debited from the payer's account.
In the SEPA area (EU/EEA), the SEPA Direct Debit is the standard. It enables cross-border direct debit collections in euros. For Swiss companies with EU customers, the SEPA Direct Debit is particularly relevant.
Direct debit examples
A gym automatically collects the monthly membership fee from members' bank accounts via LSV+.
An online shop offers SEPA direct debit as a payment method. The customer enters their IBAN and authorises the collection.
An insurance company collects the annual premium from the policyholder's account via Débit Direct.
Direct Debit FAQ
What is a direct debit?
With the direct debit procedure, the payee withdraws the amount directly from the payer's bank account. This requires the consent (direct debit mandate) of the account holder.
What is LSV+ in Switzerland?
LSV+ is the Swiss direct debit system for German-speaking banks. It enables the automatic collection of recurring payments directly from the payer's bank account.
Can I revoke a direct debit?
Yes, in Switzerland, a direct debit can be revoked within a certain period. With LSV+, the payer can lodge an objection with their bank. In the SEPA area, the revocation period is 8 weeks.
What is the difference between LSV+ and SEPA Direct Debit?
LSV+ is the Swiss direct debit scheme in EUR. The SEPA Direct Debit is the European standard for direct debit collections in euros. For cross-border payments within the EU area, the SEPA Direct Debit is used.
