Do you have questions about a payment reminder or notice you’ve received from us? Below, you can find information on how to pay an outstanding debt, what to do if you disagree with the debt, and what happens if you don’t pay the bill. We also answer other frequently asked questions from debtors. If your question isn’t listed, please contact us at 070 448 3145.
Why did I receive a letter from Collect 1?
Collect 1 is a debt collection agency that assists clients in collecting outstanding debts. If you’ve received a letter, email, or text message from us, it’s likely because you have not paid an invoice or have accumulated arrears with a creditor. This creditor has now placed a collection order with us, which is why we have sent you a payment reminder or demand letter.
How can I pay the claim?
You can pay your arrears in several ways:
- If we’ve sent you an email or text message, you can pay directly using the payment link provided.
- Alternatively, you can make a bank transfer. Please ensure you include the case number mentioned in the reminder. The payment can be transferred to our third-party account:
IBAN: NL53 ABNA 0837 3501 66
Account name: Derdengelden Collect 1
How do I know if the letter is really from Collect 1?
If you’re unsure whether a payment reminder or notice is genuinely from us, it’s best to contact us directly. You can reach us at 070 448 3145, and our staff can verify whether the letter you received is authentic by checking the file number.
From whom will I receive the reminder?
When we send you a payment reminder or notice, we always include the name of the creditor. If the creditor is unfamiliar to you, please contact us at 070 448 3145. Our staff can provide more information about the claim using the file number.
Is it possible for Collect 1 to call me?
Yes, if you have received a reminder from us and do not respond, we will attempt to contact you by phone. Additionally, we may send you emails, text messages, or WhatsApp messages.
How much are my payment arrears?
In the payment reminder or formal notice, we provide the amount of your outstanding debt. If you’ve set up a payment arrangement and are unsure of your current balance, you can request it by filling out the form titled ‘requesting a debt balance’.
What happens if I don't pay the outstanding bill?
If you ignore our reminder, we may take legal action on behalf of our client. In that case, you will receive a summons from our bailiff, which will outline the claim and specify when you must appear in court. Ultimately, the judge will decide whether you are required to pay the claim.
If the judge orders you to pay, you may also be responsible for all legal costs, including those of the other party.
If you still fail to pay after the court ruling, we may engage a bailiff to seize your income, bank accounts, movable property, or real estate, for example.
However, we always aim to avoid legal proceedings. If the claim is valid, it’s in your best interest to pay the outstanding amount before the due date or contact us to discuss your options.
Why do I have to pay collection fees?
The total amount you have to pay consists of the original debt (the principal amount of the claim) plus statutory interest and collection costs.
According to the Wettelijke incassokosten (WIK), you owe collection costs if you:
As a private person, you have received at least 1 payment reminder (WIK letter) and have also failed to pay after the 14 days’ extra time this has given you.
As a business customer, you have not paid an outstanding debt by the agreed due date of the invoice.
The amount of collection costs (for private individuals) is determined by law and is calculated based on a percentage of the outstanding debt. Minimum and maximum amounts apply.
Schedule of collection costs by law:
- Principal up to € 2,500.00 – 15% (with a minimum of € 40.00)
- Over the next € 2.500,00 – 10%
- Over the next € 5.000,00 – 5%
- Over the next € 190,000.00 – 1%
- Over the excess – 0.5% (with a maximum of € 6,775.00)
Companies may agree different collection costs in the agreement or general terms and conditions. If nothing was agreed on collection costs before the debt arose, the collection costs according to the Wet Incassokosten will apply.
Why do I have to pay interest?
If you are late in paying, you owe interest under the law. The amount of interest is fixed by law. Different interest rates apply to commercial and non-commercial transactions.
Private customers (non-commercial transactions) may not deviate from these interest rates set by law.
Business customers among themselves (commercial transactions) may agree different interest rates. If they do not agree different interest rates then the statutory interest rate applies.
How long will it take for Collect 1 to receive my payment?
The time it takes for your payment to reach our account depends on factors such as your bank. In most cases, we receive your payment within two working days.
I disagree with the claim. What can I do?
If you disagree with the claim, the first step is to contact us. Our collection specialist can provide more information about the claim. If you still disagree, you can file a formal objection.
It’s important to clearly explain why you disagree with the claim and provide supporting evidence. Our collection specialists will review your objection and discuss with the creditor whether to stop or continue the collection process.
If your objection is rejected and you still disagree, you can take the matter to court, where a judge will decide if the claim is valid.
I received a letter not intended for me?
If you receive letters from us that are not meant for you, please contact us by phone at 070 448 3145. It may be that a previous occupant is still registered at your address. Be sure to inform the municipality and report if anyone is incorrectly registered at your address. The municipality will investigate to locate the addressee’s new address. This will help prevent collection agencies and other organizations from continuing to contact you.
I can't pay the invoice. What now?
If you are unable to pay the outstanding debt, we advise you to contact us as soon as possible. It may be possible to arrange a payment plan with your creditor. For instance, you could propose paying in installments or at a later date.
If you are experiencing serious financial difficulties, there are several organizations that can help you resolve your debts.
Can I make a payment arrangement?
In some cases, it is possible to arrange a payment plan, but this depends on the creditor. You can submit a payment plan proposal to us, and we will forward it to your creditor. However, it is ultimately up to the creditor to accept or reject the proposal. Please note, the creditor is not obligated to agree to a payment arrangement.
I have been subpoenaed. Is it still possible to stop the lawsuit?
If you have been subpoenaed (received a summons from the bailiff), it means legal proceedings have been initiated against you on behalf of the creditor. You are required to appear in court. However, you can still avoid court proceedings by paying the full claim, which includes the original debt plus any additional costs. Once we receive the payment, we can withdraw the summons.
How can I submit a change of address?
If you haven’t received certain letters from us, we may have the wrong address on file. You can report your change of address by calling us at 070 448 3145.
Can I authorize someone?
Yes, it is possible to authorize someone using our authorization form. This can be helpful if you are unable to represent yourself or if you need assistance from a specialist, such as a lawyer or solicitor.
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