Just an explaination as to why DD isn't always the best choice for everyone.
As an ex NTL BB customer I had no choice but to pay by DD. I do however pay other bills over the phone or via the web by debit card. All the utility companies charge extra for this. However, when I pay my credit card bill over the web by debit card I am not charged more than the outstanding balance. So, does it cost a utility company more than my credit card company to process my payments? I think not! The only true "incentive" for paying by DD is that there is no chance of being stung for late payment or having services cut/reduced, except for if the DD bounced. You are then hit with a double whammy..late payment charge by the card company etc and a bank charge for the bounced DD. As I am paid weekly this is why I don't like DD. The calling company can ask for the payment whenever they want.The date can often vary by several days. Extremely annoying when your pay goes in the next day. So I'd rather pay the extra than risk a £38 (per bounced transaction) bank charge. The speel for DD says you remain in control but I think you'll find its the banks and the recipients that are actually in control were DD is concerned.
