On the topic of deposits - didn’t want to make a whole new thread apologies -
If a client sends a deposit for a last minute booking and then arrives 15/20 minutes late. Meaning you are unable to see them (bc of other bookings or whatever reason).
Do you suggest returning the deposit ? Even though you could have accepted someone else’s enquiry and potentially not lost out on the rest of the fee ?

(FYI my profile is very clear about last minute bookings not being advisable. Deposit being nonrefundable. Etc). Xx

I always stipulate the deposit is unrefunded if the payer makes signficant changes or cancels. What you need to say is that you are on a tight schedule, you'll fit them in but if they arrive late they may have to accept a reduced time or forfeit the deposit.

Make the terms absolutely clear.

In over 4 years of requiring deposits from new / non-regular punters I've received deposits from are not late - another benefit.

No. I wouldn't return deposit. I'd never suggest returning it either.
The deposit is to make sure they turn up as arranged. My website says it's not refundable.
I invite them to arrive 5 minutes earlier to get settled in.

My view is that's his time slot and I have a day to organise, if he's late that's his his business.

These guys can be oddly literal and misinterpret and if you write that you give them 10-15 minutes grace they may think it's ok to be late.
You may be better off removing that or encouraging prompt arrival?

I’ve taken deposits by online bank transfer before. Putting anything in the “account name” box has worked so I don’t have to tell them my real name however earlier in the year I heard that things are changing and now the name you put in there must match the name on the account!

I haven’t had any lately as I only request them for outcalls and haven’t had any of those for a long time so I don’t know if it’s already taken effect!

Is this still the case? Trying to find a safe way to accept deposits

Yes the sender may see a warning, as far as I know they can however override this.

Is there absolutely nothing else they can do with that info other than pay into the account ?

I just had 50 removed from my account which was a deposit by a client, I didn't even know the bank could do that

What explanation have you been given for this?

I take deposits by bank transfer and have never had to give a client my real name. I'm with Halifax. A client may think they need your real name but you can put literally anything in the name/reference box and it still works as long as the sort code and account number is correct.

But on their bank statement surely it says account of on it?