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Overview
If you need to change the bank account used for your SAPI collections – whether due to switching banks, closing an account, or correcting an error – this guide outlines the simple, secure process and timeline.
When You Need to Change Your Direct Debit
Common reasons include:
Switching business bank accounts: You're moving to a new bank or account for better rates, features, or service.
Bank account closure: Your bank is closing your account (or you're closing it voluntarily).
Correcting an error: The wrong account was set up initially, or details were entered incorrectly.
Security: Your bank account was compromised, requiring a fresh start.
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: Do NOT Close Your Old Account First
Never close your existing bank account before SAPI has fully confirmed that the new Direct Debit mandate is active and has been successfully tested.
Why?
Closing the account early will cause payments to fail immediately, leading to arrears status and collections calls, and even potential legal actions.
Timeline: Keep your old account open and funded for at least 7–10 days after you submit the new details.
How to Change Your Direct Debit Details
Step 1: Contact SAPI and Verify Identity
Bank account changes require identity verification This step starts the process and ensures only authorised personnel are making the change.
Phone: +44 7480 486057 (fastest method)
Email: [email protected] (allow 1-2 business days for a response)
Business hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm GMT
Have Ready: Your SAPI account reference, new business bank account name, 6-digit sort code, and 8-digit account number. The new account must be a business bank account held in your legal business name. SAPI will verify your identity using security questions (e.g., date of birth, business registration number, original advance amount, recent transaction details) and will require proof of the new business account.
Step 2: Set Up the New Direct Debit Mandate
SAPI will create a new mandate for your newly provided bank account. You will receive a secure link via email (from GoCardless) to authorise the new collection mandate.
You must click the link as soon as you receive it (to avoid expiration) and enter your new bank details.
The new mandate is processed immediately upon completion, but it takes 3-5 business days to fully activate and test.
Step 3: Test Collection and Confirmation
SAPI will process a small test collection (e.g., £1) from the new account to confirm it is fully functional.
Timeline: Test occurs within 1–3 business days of setup.
Result: You will receive confirmation when the test is successful.
Step 4: Old Mandate Cancellation & Finalisation
Once the new mandate is successfully tested and confirmed, SAPI will formally cancel the old Direct Debit mandate.
Final Action: Wait for this final confirmation email before you safely close the old bank account (if desired).
Timeline Summary
Day | Action |
Day 0 | Contact SAPI to request a change |
Day 1 | Receive link and complete new mandate setup |
Day 2–5 | Test collection processed; new mandate confirmed active |
Day 5+ | SAPI cancels old mandate; Safe to close old account |
Troubleshooting and Special Scenarios
Scenario | What to Do |
Urgent Account Change (Frozen/Closed) | Contact SAPI immediately. Explain the emergency. You may need to make a manual payment to cover collections during the expedited 2–3 day transition. |
New Mandate Link Expired | Contact SAPI immediately to request a new link and complete the setup without delay. |
Test Collection Failed | 1. Verify account details with your bank. 2. Ensure you have sufficient funds. 3. Contact SAPI immediately for a retest. |
Business Sale or Transfer | The outstanding SAPI balance typically needs to be settled before ownership transfers. The new owner would apply separately. Contact [email protected] for guidance. |
Bank Doesn't Support Direct Debit | You must use a business bank account with a UK bank that supports Direct Debit. Contact SAPI to discuss alternative (though rare) arrangements. |
Keeping Your Bank Details Secure
For your protection, SAPI will never ask for your online banking password, PIN, or request you transfer money to a personal account.
If you suspect fraud, hang up and call SAPI directly at +44 20 3868 4990.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I change my Direct Debit details myself?
A: No. For security, all bank account changes require identity verification via phone or email with the SAPI team.
Q: How long do I need to keep my old account open?
A: At least 5–7 business days after SAPI confirms the new mandate is active and tested (Step 4).
Q: Will there be any interruption to my collections?
A: If you follow the process correctly and keep your old account open and funded until Step 4 is complete, there should be no interruption.
A: Yes, you can change the account, but you will still need to clear your arrears. Contact [email protected] or +44 7441 352307 to coordinate both the account change and the arrears resolution plan.
Q: Is there a fee for changing my Direct Debit details?
A: SAPI does not charge a fee for standard account changes. However, please note that your own bank or payment service provider may impose charges related to Direct Debit failures or other services, and repeated changes may incur SAPI administrative fees.
Q: What if my new bank rejects the Direct Debit setup?
A: 1. Contact your bank to understand the reason (common issues include the account not being fully active, or Direct Debits being blocked by default).
2. Resolve the issue with your bank, then 3. Restart the mandate setup process with SAPI.
Need Help?
Phone: +44 7480 486057
Email: [email protected]
Fraud or security concerns: [email protected] or +44 20 3868 4990