If you’re planning to switch bank accounts and need a quick, low-effort way to create active direct debits, Plum might be your best option. This guide shows you exactly how to set up a direct debit with Plum, step by step — perfect for qualifying for bank switching incentives that require two or more active direct debits.
You’ll also find a Plum referral invitation to start saving and earning bonuses.
Why Use Plum to Set Up a Direct Debit?
Many UK banks offer cash bonuses (up to £200!) when you switch your current account. But to get the reward, you often need:
- At least two active direct debits
- A completed switch using the Current Account Switch Service (CASS)
That’s where Plum comes in.
With Plum, you can:
- Set up a direct debit in minutes
- Choose a tiny recurring amount (£1 or more)
- Cancel, pause or change it easily anytime
- Use it only to trigger direct debit requirements
And it still counts — because it’s an official direct debit pulled from your main bank.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Direct Debit with Plum
This guide walks you through how to activate a recurring direct debit using Plum’s built-in Weekly Depositer. You can start with just £1 per week, then even withdraw the money back — making it a no-risk option.
Step 1: Sign Up for Plum
Download the Plum app from the App Store or Google Play.
Register for an account and securely link your main UK current account. Plum uses Open Banking, which is safe and FCA-regulated.
👉 Join using this Plum referral invite
Step 2: Set Up a Weekly Direct Debit
Once inside the app:
- Go to the Home tab
- Tap on the Brain icon (that’s where Plum’s saving features live)
- Select “Weekly Depositer”
Choose how much to deposit. We recommend £1 per week — enough to count as a direct debit, but barely noticeable from your budget.
Step 3: Authorise the Direct Debit
Plum will ask you to confirm the direct debit setup with your bank. This allows Plum to automatically pull money from your bank weekly.
It usually takes a couple of days for the direct debit to activate fully.
Step 4: Wait for Confirmation
After a few days, you’ll receive an email from Plum confirming that the direct debit is active.
✅ This email is useful proof if you need to confirm your direct debits for a switching offer.
Step 5: Withdraw the Funds (Optional)
The money you deposit weekly will sit in your Plum account.
You can:
- Let it accumulate to build savings
- Or withdraw it back to your bank the next day
This means your £1 weekly deposit is virtually cost-free.
Related: As my second direct debit, I do a monthly £10 going to my Wealthify account (get £50 bonus when you join)
Use Plum for Smart Saving Too
While this guide focuses on using Plum for bank switch requirements, Plum also shines as an automated saving and investment app. You can unlock features like:
- Round-up savings
- Cashback offers
- Investment pots
- Rainy day funds
- Custom saving rules
Plum takes care of your money in the background, and you stay in full control.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to quickly set up a direct debit, especially for bank switch offers, Plum is one of the easiest and cheapest options available. It’s reliable, secure, and flexible.
Sign up today using this referral link:
👉 https://friends.withplum.com/r/uguT5JeVKJ
Set your deposit to £1 per week, receive the confirmation email, and tick off that direct debit requirement — all in just a few taps.