Upgrade and payment options

[RFJ]

I currently pay my broadband bill by monthly bank transfer. 

I am trying to sign up to a 'BT personal broadband deal' upgrade, but am informed that payment has to be by direct debit. Is there any way to upgrade and keep my existing payment method ?

[pottyperson]

Can't answer your question directly but what's wrong with Direct Debit? It's essentially a bank transfer but automatic.

[RFJ]

BT allow these payment options. Why am I restricted if I upgrade ?

With Direct Debit the 3rd party controls when and how much is taken; with Bank Transfer I have control.

[pottyperson]

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@RFJ wrote:

With Direct Debit the 3rd party controls when and how much is taken; with Bank Transfer I have control.

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The Direct Debit Guarantee requires the recipient to give you prior notice of any change in the amount or date of a payment and your bank must refund you on demand in the unlikely event of an error. See here.

That amounts to full control.