When is the reminder valid?

As a rule, you will first receive a reminder free of charge. However, if a fixed date has been agreed for payment, even a reminder can incur extra costs. Reminders from the tax office, for example, always cost money. The amount of the reminder costs depends on the outstanding amount and can therefore be high.

Avoid further reminder fees or reminder notices

Invoices and reminders are considered delivered when they land in your letterbox - even if you are on vacation, for example. Very important: Ask neighbors, family or friends to check the mail if you are away for a longer period of time. If you are going away for a longer period of time and have received a parking ticket beforehand, you can also ask someone you know to take care of the ticket. This way, the matter is settled straight away and you save yourself a "I was on vacation" discussion with the road traffic office afterwards.

Basically: Always try to make all payments on time and before you set off on your trip!

Pick up the phone when sending reminders

If you are unsure whether payment claims are justified at all, seek legal advice or contact a consumer advice center. If you have definitely made payments, you can prove this to the creditor with a corresponding account statement(observe retention periods!). This usually puts an end to the matter, as the creditor has made a mistake by sending a reminder.

Tip: If you have actually missed an invoice, transfer it immediately. And: Give the creditor a quick call. This always makes a good impression! This is recommended, for example, with a tradesman who you may need again. A quick "I'm sorry, I lost the invoice - I'll transfer it immediately" will immediately smooth things over and make you look like a trustworthy customer. This also applies to general payment difficulties. Try to talk to the creditor, if only to avert further reminder fees! In the case of public offices and authorities, however, reminder fees or late payment surcharges are usually always incurred through your own fault and are not really negotiable without good reason.

Read also: The 20 most common legal errors