Glossary
Costs consumer debt collection
The law about amicable consumer debt collection limits costs that the debt collection actor can add to the debt. How?
This law stipulates (article 5) that it is prohibited to require any late payment compensation to the debtor, except if such compensation was agreed in the underlying contract.
Naturally, this implies that amicable consumer debt collection is cost-effective for the consumer. The legislator capped the creativity of collection actors (bailiffs, attorneys and collection business). However, in 2015, members of the Belgian parliament acknowledged unfair behaviour was ongoing.
If you are the victim of such unfair action, you can contact the Federal consumer mediation service.
Updated 20/10/2017
Definitions provided under this section refer to the Belgian situation; unless specified otherwise. The texts are meant to summarize concepts in daily language and should not be considered as comprehensive or definite. We welcome suggestions for modifications or additions at glossary@tcm.be.