Letter guide
Mahnung and Mahnbescheid: what to do about a payment reminder
A Mahnung is a payment reminder from a company or person who says you owe money. A Mahnbescheid is different: it is an official order from a court (Mahngericht) with a strict deadline.
Deadline
For a normal Mahnung, the deadline is the one in the letter. For a court Mahnbescheid you have two weeks after delivery to object — otherwise the creditor can apply for an enforcement order (Vollstreckungsbescheid).
Who sends it
Mahnung: the company, a debt collection agency (Inkasso) or a lawyer. Mahnbescheid: a court (Amtsgericht – Mahngericht), usually in a yellow envelope.
What to look for
- Who claims the money and for what (invoice number, contract).
- The original amount and any extra fees (Mahngebühren, Inkassokosten).
- The payment deadline.
- With a Mahnbescheid: the objection form (Widerspruch) is included.
What you usually need to do
- Check whether you really owe the money — and whether you already paid.
- If it is correct: pay, or ask in writing for a payment plan (Ratenzahlung).
- If it is wrong: reply in writing, explain why and keep a copy.
- Be careful with very high collection fees and with letters that look fake — check the company yourself.
Where to get help
Consumer advice centres (Verbraucherzentrale) and free debt counselling (Schuldnerberatung) can help.
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Try Clartly for freeGeneral information, not legal advice. Every letter is different — always check yours and get professional advice in a dispute. Last reviewed: 2026-10.