Many of us have signed up to gym memberships, streaming apps or “free trials” that quietly turned into monthly payments.
Those forgotten subscriptions can really add up. At Citizens Advice North Herts (CANH), we’re urging residents to check their bank statements and take control of “continuous payments.”
When you give a company permission to take money from your debit or credit card at set intervals, this is usually a continuous payment authority (CPA). It might be for a gym, magazine, online subscription or even a one-off payday loan repayment.
Follow these simple steps:
• Go through your recent bank and card statements and list every subscription or recurring card payment.
• Decide which ones you still want and which you can cancel or renegotiate.
• For any you want to stop, contact your bank or card provider and clearly say you are withdrawing consent for that continuous payment authority – and keep a note of the date, time and who you spoke to. Any problems and you can contact the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Remember, even if you stop the card payment, you might still owe money under the original contract (for example a gym agreement), so you may need to discuss a different way to pay.
If you’re worried about mounting subscriptions, overdrafts or other debts, CANH can help. We offer free, confidential advice on budgeting, dealing with creditors and understanding your rights. Visit the Citizens Advice North Herts website or contact us directly to speak to an adviser before things get out of hand.
If you need more specific support or don’t feel able to manage your situation alone, call our Advice Line on 0800 144 88 48 or visit northhertscab.org.uk for opening hours or to email us.
