Anyone who simply ignores reminders is exposing themselves to the risk of rising costs and legal consequences. Sebastian Ludwig emphasizes this in a recent article in Stern magazine. In Germany, around 33.4 million claims end up with debt collection agencies every year - often due to forgetfulness, misunderstandings or financial bottlenecks. However, many consumers react with uncertainty or do nothing, which is the wrong approach according to Ludwig. After all, you can't hope that the creditor will cancel a dunning procedure - “that won't happen.”
Reminder process and additional costs in detail
Initially, companies send free payment reminders after the payment deadline has passed. If these remain unanswered, reminders with costs follow. If the claim is handed over to a debt collection agency, additional fees are incurred, which are based on the German Lawyers' Fees Act (RVG) and increase with the duration of the delay. For small claims up to 50 euros, the fee is usually around 27 euros, but can also be lower if consumers react quickly. Those who pay quickly after the first reminder can benefit from a reduction in costs.
Five steps for the right response to reminders
Sebastian Ludwig recommends specific steps for consumers to avoid additional costs and legal consequences:
- Check: Is the claim justified? If in doubt, the claim can be checked by consumer advice centers.
- Question the charges: Are the itemized costs comprehensible and justified?
- Make contact: Talk to the creditor or debt collection service to clarify misunderstandings or agree an installment payment.
- Pay quickly: Paying quickly usually saves you additional fees.
- Seek help: Debt counseling services can help with financial difficulties.
Reputable debt collection service providers: transparency instead of pressure
Ludwig emphasizes that reputable debt collection companies like coeo aim to find solutions that are viable for both sides. “Our aim is to reach a fair agreement,” he explains. With the right approach, consumers can resolve dunning procedures efficiently and avoid high follow-up costs.
Take this opportunity to find out how to deal with reminders correctly and avoid unnecessary additional costs!
About the coeo Group
The coeo Group is the leading technology-based debt collection company in Europe. With a clear focus on the combination of groundbreaking AI and first-class customer service, coeo sets new standards in the industry and continuously drives the optimization and further development of receivables management and all other business processes.
Press contact:
Sarah Lehmann
Head of Marketing & Public Relations
Tel.: +49 2133 2463-0
presse@coeo-inkasso.de