Finance7NEWS AustraliaRental payment platform DEFT ditches card payments amid Albanese government’s surcharge changes
Macquarie Bank's DEFT platform has scrapped card payments for rent after new surcharge rules kicked in, leaving 1.2 million monthly renters scrambling for alternatives.
Those using card for rental payments will need to switch to an alternative payment option.
Macquarie Bank's DEFT rental payment platform has blocked credit and debit card transactions following new government surcharge rules that took effect last week.
Around 1.2 million rental payments flow through DEFT each month, though the bank says fewer than 2 per cent were made by card.
Renters who relied on cards to spread costs until payday may struggle to meet obligations, though BPay and Australia Post card payments may still be options.
If you pay rent through DEFT, check now whether you can switch to BPay or Australia Post before your next payment is due to avoid falling into arrears.
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