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Disputing Incorrect Invoice in Netherlands

Receiving an incorrect invoice is frustrating and can cause financial worry. You're not obligated to pay an invoice that's incorrect or for goods or services you haven't received. Fortunately, as a consumer in the Netherlands, you have clear rights and options to challenge an incorrect invoice under Dutch law.

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What's happening?

An incorrect invoice can have various causes: double billing, wrong amounts, charges for undelivered services, or administrative errors. Sometimes companies deliberately try to overcharge, but often it's unintentional mistakes. It's important to act quickly when you receive an invoice that isn't correct. If you do nothing, the company may assume you agree with the invoice. By making timely objections, you prevent the situation from escalating to bailiffs (deurwaarders) or debt collection agencies (incassobureaus).

What does Dutch law say?

Dutch law protects consumers against incorrect billing. You're only obligated to pay what you actually owe according to the agreements made. The Dutch Civil Code (Burgerlijk Wetboek) provides clear rules about when a payment obligation arises and how you can dispute it. Companies must be able to prove that their claim is justified.

1Article 6:162 BW (Dutch Civil Code): You only need to pay what you actually owe based on a valid agreement
2Article 6:96 BW (Dutch Civil Code): An invoice must correspond to what was actually delivered or performed
3Article 3:305a BW (Dutch Civil Code): The burden of proof lies with the party claiming a payment obligation exists

What are your rights?

As a consumer in the Netherlands, you have strong rights when you receive an incorrect invoice. These rights ensure you don't have to pay for services you haven't received or amounts that are incorrect.

1Right to explanation: You may demand a clear justification of the invoice from the company
2Right to suspend payment: You don't have to pay a disputed invoice whilst the dispute is ongoing
3Right to proof: The company must be able to prove the invoice is correct
4Right to correction: If the invoice is indeed incorrect, the company must adjust or withdraw it

What can you do now?

Tackle the situation step by step. By working systematically, you increase the chances of a quick and favourable solution.

1Step 1: Gather all documents (invoice, contract, correspondence) and note why the invoice is incorrect
2Step 2: Contact the company and explain in writing why you're disputing the invoice
3Step 3: If the company won't cooperate, contact a disputes committee (geschillencommissie) or file a complaint with regulatory authorities
4Step 4: Consider legal help if it involves a large amount or if the company remains unreasonable

Sample letter or template

A well-formulated objection letter is essential to make your position clear. MijnRecht.AI can help you draft a professional letter disputing the invoice, setting out your arguments and proposing a solution. This ensures your message comes across clearly and your rights are respected.

Where can you get help?

There are various organisations that can help you dispute an invoice in the Netherlands. The Legal Counter (Juridisch Loket) offers free advice for simple questions. For specific industries, there are disputes committees (geschillencommissies) that can make decisions at low cost. For larger amounts or complex cases, you can seek legal help or go to the magistrates' court (kantonrechter).

Conclusion

You don't have to simply accept an incorrect invoice. By knowing your rights and taking the right steps, you can often reach a solution. Don't let yourself be intimidated and take timely action to protect your position in the Netherlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

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