Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) Form

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What Is a Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) Form & Why Your Mortgage Lender Asks for It

If your lender has asked you for a Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) Form, you’re not alone — it’s a common part of the mortgage paperwork process in Canada. While it might look like just another form to fill out, it plays a big role in how your mortgage payments get set up and paid automatically each month.

Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or renewing your mortgage, understanding the PAD form ensures your payments are scheduled properly — with less stress and fewer surprises.

What Exactly Is a PAD (Pre-Authorized Debit) Form?

A Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) Form is a document you complete to give your lender permission to automatically withdraw your mortgage payments from your bank account. It includes your banking information and authorizes the lender to debit your account on a recurring schedule (typically monthly).

In other words: instead of you having to make manual payments every month, the lender pulls the money directly from your account on the agreed date.

Why Is a PAD Form Important for Your Mortgage?

Your lender needs this form before they can set up automatic payments — which are usually required before your mortgage funds. Here’s why it matters:

  • Automates your monthly payments so you never miss a due date.
  • Reduces the risk of late fees or missed payments that can affect your credit.
  • Speeds up the closing process by ensuring payment details are confirmed ahead of time.

Without a completed PAD form (or equivalent banking info like a void cheque), lenders generally can’t finalize your mortgage setup — which can delay your closing date.

What Information Is on a PAD Form?

The exact layout of PAD forms varies by bank or lender, but most include the following:

  • Your full legal name — must match your bank account exactly.
  • Your bank account details — transit number, institution number, and account number.
  • Authorization & signature — giving the lender permission to withdraw payments.
  • Payment schedule — how often and when withdrawals should occur (e.g., monthly).

Some lenders may also ask you to attach a void cheque or direct deposit form alongside the PAD form to verify your banking information.

Joint Accounts? Make Sure It’s Correct

If you’re using a joint bank account (for example, with a spouse or co-buyer), double-check that:

  • Both names appear on the account.
  • The PAD form includes any required signatures.

Missing these details can delay your payment setup.

How to Get & Submit Your PAD Form

From Your Bank

Most Canadian banks let you download a PAD or direct deposit form from online banking — often in the same place where you would get a void cheque or banking details.

You can also request a pre-printed PAD form by visiting your branch or contacting your bank’s customer service line.

To Your Mortgage Professional.

Once complete, submit the form to your lender or mortgage broker exactly as instructed — this might be via secure upload, email, portal, or in person.

Final Tip: Review

Before You Send Before submitting your PAD form:

  • ✅ Make sure all account numbers are clear and legible.
  • ✅ Confirm the name on the form matches your legal bank account name.
  • ✅ Attach any required documents (void cheque / bank form).

This small step helps keep your mortgage closing on track without last-minute hiccups.

Need Help with Mortgage Paperwork?

At Red Key Mortgage, we help clients through every step of the mortgage process—from approval to funding. If you’re unsure which documents to submit or need help gathering your paperwork, we’re just a phone call or email away.

Reach out today and we’ll walk you through it, one step at a time.

Contact Red Key Mortgage today — we’ll walk you through every step of the approval process.

Want more insider advice like this? Grab your free copy of the free 2025 Home Buyer’s Guide packed with tips to help you buy with confidence you need to know if you’re buying your first home.