Having drawn from the expertise of Atradius Collections' local offices, the International Debt Collections Handbook explains the different regulations for debt collections in the Czech Republic.
Amicable collections
General information
Atradius Collections maintains a professional collection process, focusing at all times on the relationships between our clients and their debtors. Our team of collection specialists carry out the collection process in-house. We contact debtors both verbally and in writing whilst adhering to the state law. When there is a dispute, we aim to reach an amicable solution between the creditor and the debtor. We do this by analysing all contractual documents (e.g. signed contracts, orders, confirmations, invoices and delivery notes, as well as all standard terms that have been agreed upon). All investigations are completed with the assistance and agreement of our legal team.
Interest
Interest rates should be specified in the contract between the supplier and the buyer. If they are not, the supplier can charge an interest rate on late payment based on the law. The interest rate is the same for all business relations and is prescribed by civil law. It is calculated as the amount of the repo rate set by the Czech National Bank, plus 8%. Atradius Collections charges interest to the debtor, both in the amicable and legal phases. In a legal proceeding, the interest rate is based on the law if it is not contracted by the parties; and the courts will always award the interest that is required under the condition that the principal is granted.
From a cultural point of view, it can be difficult to obtain the total amount of interest from the debtor. Often, the interest is considered a matter of negotiation between debtors and collectors.
Debt collection costs
Since July 2013, creditors can also demand a lump sum of collection costs of at least CZK 1,200.
The Debt Collections Handbook presents a snapshot of the Czech Republic's current economic situation and covers the following topics:
- Types of companies
- Legal procedures
- Enforcement in debt, movable and immovable property
- Insolvency proceedings
To read more about steps and procedures undertaken in debt collections in the Czech Republic and other countries: