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Introduction #
The SEPA Mandates module allows you to manage direct debit authorizations provided by your clients. A SEPA mandate is a document by which a debtor (your client) authorizes a creditor (your company) to withdraw funds from their bank account. It is accessible via Finance > SEPA Mandates.
The mandate is a mandatory prerequisite for performing bank direct debits in compliance with the SEPA standard.
1. Create a SEPA mandate #
Click on Add a mandate from the module list.
Information to be provided:
- Debtor: the client authorizing the direct debit (mandatory)
- Bank account: the debtor’s third-party bank account from which the direct debits will be made
- IBAN and BIC: bank details (pre-filled from the third-party bank account)
- Unique Mandate Reference (UMR): the unique identifier of the mandate, required by the SEPA standard
- Date: the date the mandate was signed
Options:
- Recurring payment: indicates whether the mandate authorizes recurring direct debits or a one-off direct debit
- B2B – Business-to-business direct debit: check this option for mandates between companies (SEPA B2B scheme), which offers reduced refund periods compared to the CORE scheme (individuals)
Important: The Unique Mandate Reference (UMR) is mandatory and must be unique. It identifies the mandate to the banks and must appear on every direct debit order.
2. Use in direct debits #
SEPA mandates are used when creating bank direct debits. The system verifies that each debited client has a valid mandate with a bank account provided.
3. Frequently asked questions #
Can a client have multiple mandates?
Yes, a client can have several active mandates, for example for different bank accounts. During the direct debit, the mandate associated with the default bank account will be used.
What is the difference between a CORE mandate and a B2B mandate?
The CORE mandate applies to direct debits from individual accounts, with a refund right of 8 weeks (or 13 months in the case of an unauthorized direct debit). The B2B mandate applies between companies and does not allow for refunds after execution, offering more security to the creditor.
Does the mandate have an expiration date?
According to SEPA regulations, a mandate becomes void if it is not used for 36 consecutive months. It is recommended to monitor the activity of your mandates.