SEPA Lastschrift is one of Germany's most popular payment methods, enabling businesses to withdraw funds directly from a customer’s bank account after receiving authorisation. As part of the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) initiative, this method standardises direct debit payments across Europe and is widely used for subscriptions, invoices, instalments, and recurring services.
In Germany, SEPA Lastschrift is deeply integrated into everyday life, offering a convenient and trusted way for consumers to manage payments while giving merchants an efficient, low-cost alternative to card-based transactions.
Contact salesSEPA Lastschrift is one of Germany's most popular payment methods, enabling businesses to withdraw funds directly from a customer’s bank account after receiving authorisation. As part of the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) initiative, this method standardises direct debit payments across Europe and is widely used for subscriptions, invoices, instalments, and recurring services.
In Germany, SEPA Lastschrift is deeply integrated into everyday life, offering a convenient and trusted way for consumers to manage payments while giving merchants an efficient, low-cost alternative to card-based transactions.
Contact salesSEPA 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
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.