Found something? You are entitled to a finder's reward

A wallet on the street, a smartphone on the train: people who find something rarely think about the legal situation. Yet honesty pays off twice: you do have to report the find, but in return you are entitled to a finder's reward.

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Your chances of getting your money back

As an honest finder you are entitled to a finder's reward (§ 971 BGB): as a rule 5 % of the value up to 500 euros and 3 % of the value above that (3 % for animals). The condition is that you have properly reported the find.

A found item of more than minor value must be reported to the loser, the owner or the responsible office (lost property office) (§ 965 BGB). If no one comes forward after six months, you can even become the owner of the item (§ 973 BGB).

What you should do now

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1. Report the find
Report the find (from minor value upward) to the loser/owner or at the lost property office.
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2. Keep or hand in the item
Keep the item carefully or hand it in at the lost property office.
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3. Claim the finder's reward
When returning it to the owner you can demand the finder's reward (5 % / 3 %).
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4. Keep an eye on the deadline
If no one comes forward after six months, ownership can pass to you (§ 973 BGB).

Frequently asked questions

How much is the finder's reward?

Under § 971 BGB, as a rule 5 % of the value up to 500 euros and 3 % of the value above that; 3 % for animals. The condition for the entitlement is that you properly reported the find and did not conceal it. You can demand the finder's reward when returning the item to the owner.

Am I allowed to keep something I found?

Not right away. You must report a find of more than minor value (to the loser, owner or lost property office) and keep it safe. Only if no one comes forward within six months of the report can you acquire ownership of the item (§ 973 BGB). Anyone who simply keeps a find risks being accused of embezzlement.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.