Unjustified debt collection claim: what to do?

You are suddenly supposed to pay a debt collection agency for something you never ordered, already paid for or do not recognize at all? Do not pay hastily. Many of these claims are inflated or unjustified, and some are completely made up.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

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Your chances of getting your money back

You do not simply have to pay an unjustified or unclear claim. A factual objection and a request for proof often get you far.

First check whether the debt collection agency is even registered and whether the claim can be genuine; that decides your next step.

What you should do now

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1. Do not pay hastily, do not ignore it
Do not pay out of fear, but do not ignore the mail either. Respond factually and in writing.
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2. Check the claim and the sender
Check whether the debt collection agency is entered in the legal services register and whether the claim is plausible. Use our sender check and the scam check for this.
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3. Object and demand proof
Dispute the claim in writing and demand the exact reason, the original contract and a breakdown of the amounts. Do not acknowledge anything.
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4. For fake debt collection: report it
If it looks like fake debt collection (threats, pressure, a foreign account, payment by voucher), report it to the consumer advice center and file a complaint if needed.

How to spot the scam

A very short payment deadline and threats of 'immediate' action, court or Schufa.
No understandable statement of where the claim comes from (no contract, no breakdown).
Payment to a foreign account or by voucher or crypto.
The 'debt collection agency' cannot be found in the official register.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay a debt collection claim?

Only if it is actually justified. You can dispute an unjustified or unclear claim in writing and demand proof. Do not acknowledge anything hastily.

How do I recognize fake debt collection?

Typical signs are: strong pressure and short deadlines, no understandable basis, payment to foreign accounts or by voucher, and an agency that is not in the official register.

What do I write to the debt collection agency?

A factual objection: dispute the claim, ask for an exact breakdown and the original contract, and give no acknowledgment. You can create a suitable letter here.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

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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.