Municipal reminder costs: Is this allowed without a reminder?

Questioner

I received a reminder from the municipal taxes. I had transferred 6 euros too little. One had filled in a 1 instead of 7 for one term. Now I also have to pay 7 euros in reminder costs. It seems a bit strange to me because I had no memory or anything like that. My specific question: Can the municipality charge reminder costs without first sending a reminder?

Lawyer

As of 1 July 2012, new rules apply regarding additional costs (collection costs). All costs resulting from non-payment of an invoice or bill fall under the heading of collection costs. The costs must also be reasonable. What is not reasonable are costs that are disproportionate. For example, what is not allowed is charging collection costs when you have not yet received a reminder to proceed with payment. Collection costs can only be charged after the notice of default and after 14 days have elapsed. The collection costs must be specified in the notice of default. Since you have already paid, the reminder costs do not seem reasonable to me. If you would like more information, please contact us directly.