Money and debt in Ireland: money owed, debt collectors and banks

For someone in Ireland chased by a debt collector or debt purchaser for a debt they do not recognise, dispute, or believe is more than six years old. The reply acknowledges nothing and offers nothing: it asks for proof — the agreement, a statement of account, the last payment and the transfer of the debt — or says the debt is statute-barred under section 11 of the Statute of Limitations 1957, and asks the firm to write only. MABS gives free, confidential help with debt. Send it by registered post (An Post) and keep a copy.

For a private person in Ireland owed money by another person — an unrepaid loan, a share of a bill, money paid for something never handed over. The letter sets out what the money is for and the amount, gives 14 days to pay or explain, invites a proposal to pay in instalments, and says that otherwise you will issue court proceedings without further notice. The Small Claims procedure does not take debts, so a claim of up to €15,000 goes to the District Court. Send it by registered post (An Post) and keep proof.

For a policyholder in Ireland whose insurer has refused, underpaid or delayed a claim, cancelled a policy or charged unfairly — car, home, travel, health or other insurance. The letter is a formal complaint under the insurer's complaints procedure and asks for the reports its decision relied on. Under the Central Bank's Consumer Protection Code the insurer acknowledges it and gives a final response; after that, you can go free to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman. Send it by email or registered post (An Post).

For a customer in Ireland with a complaint about a bank, credit union, card provider, lender, pension or investment firm — a charge, a refused or wrong payment, poor service, a mistake or a mis-sold product. The letter is a formal complaint under the firm's complaints procedure: under the Central Bank's Consumer Protection Code a regulated firm acknowledges it, keeps you updated and gives a final response. If you are not satisfied, you can then go free to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO). Send it by email or by registered post (An Post).