Demand for payment

A letter from a creditor or debt-collection agency demanding payment. It is not a court ruling — the payment deadline is set by the sender.

The content of this page is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. Your situation may require an individual assessment by a lawyer.

What is this letter?

A demand for payment (monit, pre-court demand) is a letter in which a creditor, or a debt-collection agency acting on their behalf, demands payment of a specific amount. It is not a court ruling or an enforcement title — no one can seize your account or salary on its basis. It usually precedes taking the case to court.

What deadline applies?

The law does not set a single deadline for responding to a demand for payment — the payment deadline is set by the sender in the letter (often 7 or 14 days). Missing it has no procedural effect by itself, but the creditor may take the case to court.

The deadline runs from the day the letter is delivered (received) — the delivery day itself does not count. Verify the delivery date with a lawyer: whether you make the deadline depends on it.

What happens if you ignore it?

No reaction at all may end in a lawsuit or an application for a payment order — court costs and interest are then added to the debt. If the claim is disputed (e.g. time-barred or already paid), respond in writing and keep a copy. Do not ignore any follow-up letters from a court — those carry hard deadlines.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I just throw away a demand from a debt-collection agency?

Better not. Even if you dispute the debt, a written response (e.g. a limitation plea or proof of payment) often ends the matter and strengthens your position should the case go to court.

How do I know whether the debt is time-barred?

Limitation periods differ by claim type — e.g. three years for periodic claims and business-related claims, six years for others (Art. 118 of the Civil Code). The assessment depends on the details, so it is best to review the documents with a lawyer.

Can I harm my position by responding?

Yes, if you inadvertently acknowledge the debt — e.g. by asking for instalments — because acknowledgement interrupts the limitation period. Before declaring repayment, make sure the claim actually exists and is not time-barred.

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Other official letters

Payment order (nakaz zapłaty)Statement of claim (lawsuit served by the court)Summons from the tax officeLetter from a bailiff (seizure, start of enforcement)Termination of a lease agreementTermination of an employment contractWitness summonsNotice of the opening of administrative proceedingsFine ticket / minor offence (mandat)