I received a payment order – what should I do?

If you received a payment order, do not delay: the law sets a strict 15-day deadline. This guide explains what the order means, what options you have and what you should do.

What does it mean if I received a payment order?

A payment order is an official document issued by a notary, by which a creditor enforces an overdue monetary claim against you. The notary does not examine the merits of the claim: it is issued on the creditor's one-sided request. This means the order alone does not prove the claim is justified — but if you do not react in time, it becomes final and enforceable.

You have three options

Within 15 days of service you may choose from the following:

1. Pay the debt
If the claim is justified and you can avoid further costs, paying is the simplest. Fees and late-payment interest may also be claimed from you — it is worth calculating these in advance.

2. Object
If you dispute the claim (you do not owe it, already paid, it is time-barred, or the situation is different), you may file an objection. On an objection, the case turns into litigation and the court decides. The objection need not be reasoned in detail, but the deadline is fixed.

3. Request instalments
If the debt exists but you cannot pay it in one sum, you may request instalments or a deferral. It is worth submitting the request with a justification and data supporting your solvency.

The 15-day deadline matters most

The deadline starts from the service of the order. If within 15 days you neither pay nor object, the payment order becomes final — from then on it is enforceable just like a final court judgment, and the court bailiff can collect the claim (even by wage garnishment or direct debit). So the most important thing is to act in time.

What happens after an objection?

With an objection filed in time, the case automatically turns into litigation: the creditor must prove the claim, and the court decides on the merits. At this point real legal defence is needed — it is worth engaging a lawyer.

How we help

We review the order, clarify whether the claim is well-founded, and file the objection or instalment request within the deadline. If the case turns into litigation, we also represent you before the court. On the forms below you can start in a few minutes.

Start an objection or instalment request

This information is general and does not constitute legal advice; for your specific case, feel free to contact us.