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    Can you get a direct debit refunded?

    Refund rights for euro direct debits.

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    Short answer

    Yes. Your Europe explains that if a direct debit is taken by mistake or for the wrong amount, for example after you cancelled a contract, you have the right to a refund within 8 weeks. This applies to direct debits within your home country and cross-border ones within the EU. The European Banking Authority notes that during the first 8 weeks a SEPA Core direct debit can be refunded immediately on a no-questions-asked basis.

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    Why

    1. Your Europe gives an 8-week refund right for direct debits.
    2. The right covers domestic and cross-border direct debits in the EU.
    3. The EBA describes immediate no-questions-asked refunds in the first 8 weeks.

    Details

    A refund does not cancel the contract or the debt itself. If you still owe the money, the company can bill you another way.

    Tip

    Ask for the refund through your bank's online service or app, and tell the company why.

    What may differ

    Different rules apply to business direct debits and to unauthorised debits.

    Common misconception

    Once money is taken by direct debit, it is gone for good.

    What actually happens

    Consumers can get a direct debit refunded within 8 weeks.

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    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Payment rules and fees change, so check the official sources or your bank before you pay.

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