In short
- Many schools and nurseries ask for bank transfer or Direct Debit, and some don't take cards for fees.
- With Omrello the school receives a normal bank transfer with your child's reference.
- A term of fees is one large payment, which can go a long way towards a card's spend target.
How schools usually want paying
Independent schools usually send a termly invoice with bank details, or offer a Direct Debit spread across the year. Some accept cards, but many don't for fees, especially for large amounts.
Nurseries, childminders, after-school clubs and tutors are similar. Most ask for a monthly bank transfer.
Paying by card when the school only takes bank transfer
- Add the school as a payee using the bank details on your invoice.
- Use the reference the school asks for, usually your child's name or the invoice number.
- Pay with your Visa, Mastercard or American Express.
- The school receives a normal bank transfer and matches it to your invoice as usual.
The school doesn't need to sign up to anything or change how it collects fees.
What a term could earn
On a card earning 1 point per £1, a £6,000 term earns 6,000 points, or 18,000 points over a school year. With two children that doubles. A single term can also cover a new card's sign-up bonus target in one go.
Reward figures are examples. Each card provider sets its own rules on what earns points.
If you use Tax-Free Childcare
Payments made with Tax-Free Childcare have to go from your childcare account straight to the provider, so that part can't go on your card. You can still pay any remaining balance by card.
Things to check
- Your credit limit. A full term's fees is a big payment, so make sure your limit can take it.
- Pay in full. Clear your card by the due date to avoid interest.
- Deadlines. Pay a few working days before the fees are due.
Common questions
- Can you pay school fees by credit card?
- Some independent schools take cards, but many only take bank transfer or Direct Debit. Omrello lets you pay by card while the school receives a transfer.
- Can I pay nursery fees by card?
- Yes. Any nursery with a UK bank account can be paid this way.
Launching soon in the UK
Pay your next big bill by card.
Rent, school fees and council tax, paid on your card, while the person you pay gets a normal UK bank transfer. Join the waitlist and you'll be first in.
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