FAQs: Standing Order Payments Update

If you currently pay your Trust membership monthly by Standing Order, or if your annual membership is due for renewal by Standing Order in May, you should have received an email from us with instructions on how to update your payment method.

Updating your payment method is quick and straightforward. Making this change will provide a more reliable and efficient payment process for all members. It will also ensure your membership priority level is accurate and consistently reflects your payment status.

We’ve answered some frequently asked questions regarding this change below. If you need any help or have further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using the details provided in the email.

Why is this change happening?

At present, Standing Order payments have to be matched to each membership manually. This is a time-consuming process and can lead to temporary errors, such as memberships incorrectly showing as expired. This affects members’ priority status and can impact their ability to vote in Trust decisions.

We saw this issue during our recent kit vote, where some members couldn’t access their accounts due to delays in processing Standing Order payments.

The current system we use to collect Standing Orders is also costly and outdated. Moving all members to payments via VeryConnect will save the Trust time and money, which can be better utilised elsewhere.

What is VeryConnect?

VeryConnect is our online membership platform. It allows members to manage their accounts, sign up for exclusive Trust events, and take part in key decisions, like the recent vote on the 2025/26 kit. There is also a forum area to interact with other members or ask questions directly to the Trust Board.

Why is this happening so quickly?

Although the new payment system officially starts on 1st May, we’ve built in a grace period to allow members time to make the change. However, it’s important to update your payment method before your next payment is due in June, to avoid any disruption to your membership.

Why doesn't one of the links work in my email?

If you received an email with two links—one to register for VeryConnect and another to renew your membership—and the registration link doesn’t work, it may be because you’ve previously registered with VeryConnect, even if you haven’t been using it to make payments. Please click the other link that says ‘Renew your membership’, and you should be able to complete the process.

Why does my membership say it’s expired?

While you’re switching to the new payment method, your membership may temporarily show as expired. Don’t worry — your priority status won’t be affected during this transition, as long as the new payment method is set up promptly.

Why do I need to cancel the Standing Order myself?

Standing Orders are agreements between you and your bank, so we’re unable to cancel them on your behalf. You can cancel your Standing Order through your bank’s app, over the phone, or by visiting your branch.

What happens if I don’t update my payment method?

If you don’t update your payment method, your priority status may be affected and your membership could lapse. We’re providing plenty of time for members to make this change and have deliberately scheduled it outside the football season to minimise any inconvenience.

I’ve already paid — will I be charged twice?

We accept payments on any day of the month, so it's difficult to set one date that suits everyone to request them to make the change. If your Standing Order has already gone through this month, we will ensure you're not charged twice. Please contact us at trust.membership@ecfc.co.uk and we’ll arrange a refund.

Do I have to repeat this process every month?

Once you have set up your new payment method, your payment will automatically be taken each month or each year when it is time to renew. You don't need to repeat this process.

What if I haven’t received the email?

All members who need to update their payment method should have now received an email. If you believe this applies to you but haven’t received any communication, please get in touch with us at trust.membership@ecfc.co.uk.