SEPA Lastschrift is ideal for businesses looking to reduce payment friction and automate collections. Once a customer grants a mandate—online or in writing—merchants can automatically collect one-time or recurring payments.

This method is desirable for service providers, utilities, insurance companies, and e-commerce merchants. Payments are processed through the customer’s bank, eliminating the need for cards and reducing processing fees.

Customers in Germany appreciate the familiarity and ease of SEPA Lastschrift. Payments are handled automatically, and they retain control through the ability to revoke authorisation or dispute charges within a set timeframe, adding to the trustworthiness of the method.

Key features and benefits

• Widely adopted in Germany: SEPA Lastschrift is a standard payment method millions of German consumers use.
• Automated payment collection: Ideal for recurring services, memberships, and subscriptions.
• Cost-effective: Lower fees compared to card processing and reduced administrative burden.
• Consumer protection: Includes refund rights and transparent dispute handling in compliance with EU regulations.
• Direct bank integration: Payments are pulled directly from the customer’s account with no need for card networks.
• Reliable cash flow: Timely, predictable payment processing supports business planning.

Ideal for recurring billing and subscription models

SEPA Lastschrift is especially beneficial for businesses with ongoing payment relationships. It removes the need for customers to initiate transactions manually, improving retention and reducing failed payments. Merchants also benefit from reduced churn and better control over invoicing cycles.

For customers, it offers simplicity and trust—key factors in the German market, where direct debit is often preferred over credit cards.

Integration with Planet

Planet supports SEPA Lastschrift for businesses in Germany, making it easy to offer this widely accepted payment method. Our platform helps automate mandate handling, payment collection, and reconciliation.

By integrating SEPA Lastschrift through Planet, merchants can provide a localised, reliable, and efficient payment experience that builds trust and supports long-term customer relationships.