Disputing an unjustified invoice in writing

An invoice for something you never ordered? Or an amount that is far too high? Don't pay — but don't ignore it either. A written objection is the right way. Here is how.

Check first, then object

Before you object, check briefly: did you or someone in your household order something after all? Is it a subscription you forgot about? Is the billing address correct? If the answer is clearly "no", the case is unambiguous — the objection is due.

Person holding a shield against a flying invoice with a warning symbol — Don't pay, but object in writing: this prevents a wrong invoice from turning into a judicial dunning procedure.

What you must not do

Don't simply ignore it: Without an objection the creditor can start a judicial dunning procedure — then it gets expensive.
Don't pay "for peace and quiet": A payment is often treated as acknowledgement of the claim.
Don't argue on the phone: Verbal objections are hard to prove. Always in writing.

How to write the objection

Reference: invoice number, invoice date, amount.
Clarification: "The service named was neither ordered nor used by me."
Demand: "I ask you not to pursue the claim further and to send me no further reminders."
Demand proof: "Should you uphold the claim, I ask for the contract evidence to be provided."

A ready-made sample is in the template Object to a claim. For a debt collection demand, first check with the collection check whether the claim is justified at all.

Dispatch and proof

Send the objection with proof — by Einwurfeinschreiben or online via the letter editor with a dispatch confirmation. Keep the copy and receipt. If a judicial payment order follows, a two-week objection deadline applies — the article Sending an objection by post explains the details.

Note: This article is not legal advice. For high amounts or an already-started dunning procedure, consulting a lawyer is worthwhile.