Debt collection agencies in Finland operate under strict legal regulations to ensure fair practices and protect debtors' rights. The primary legislation governing this sector is the Debt Collection Act (Laki saatavien perinnästä), which outlines the rules and limitations of debt collection activities. These agencies are supervised by the Finnish Consumer Ombudsman and the Regional State Administrative Agency for Southern Finland.
📌 Official legislation (English version): finlex.fi
📌 What Debts Can Be Collected in Finland?
Debt collection agencies in Finland operate under contracts with banks, companies, government institutions, and other creditors. They are responsible for collecting various types of debts, including:
✔️ Unpaid utility bills (electricity, gas, water)
✔️ Medical bills (hospital and private clinic services)
✔️ Rental arrears (unpaid rent)
✔️ Consumer loans and bank debts
✔️ Traffic fines and administrative penalties
Debt collectors CANNOT use threats, intimidation, or harassment. If a debtor believes their rights have been violated, they can file a complaint with the relevant authorities.
📌 Supervisory authority for debt collection in Finland: kkv.fi
🔍 How Does the Debt Collection Process Work?
1️⃣ Receiving an Invoice:
- After using a paid service (e.g., medical treatment), an invoice is issued with a payment deadline, usually 14 or 30 days.
2️⃣ Payment Reminders:
- If the invoice is not paid on time, the creditor will send a first reminder (often without penalty).
- If payment is still not made, a second reminder may include late fees and interest charges.
3️⃣ Transfer to a Debt Collection Agency:
- If the bill remains unpaid, the creditor (e.g., a hospital or bank) assigns the debt to a collection agency.
- The agency will send a formal debt collection notice, including additional collection fees.
4️⃣ Consequences of Non-Payment:
- If the debt remains unpaid, the collection agency may initiate legal proceedings.
- If a court decision is made in favor of the creditor, the debt can be transferred to enforcement authorities (ulosotto), leading to wage garnishment or direct bank deductions.
📌 More details on debt collection in Finland: oikeuspalveluvirasto.fi
⚖️ Debtor Rights in Finland
🔹 Right to Verify the Debt – Debtors can request full documentation of the debt, including:
- Original invoices and payment history
- Breakdown of additional charges and interest fees
🔹 Right to Dispute a Debt – If a debtor disagrees with the claim, they must submit a written dispute.
- Once a dispute is filed, the debt collection process must be paused until the issue is resolved.
🔹 Limitations on Debt Collection Activities – Debt collectors CANNOT:
- Call debtors late at night
- Use aggressive or harassing collection methods
🔹 Statute of Limitations – Some debts expire after a certain period and cannot be legally enforced. Debtors can check with a legal professional to determine whether their debt qualifies for expiration.
📌 Debtor rights and legal protections: kkv.fi
🏢 Major Debt Collection Agencies in Finland
1. Laihian Laki Oy
📌 Established in 1979, operates on a “No Result → No Commission” basis.
📞 Phone: +358-6-4770888
📧 Email: tytti.pajukangas@laihian-laki.fi
🌍 Website: laihian-laki.fi
2. Kredinor Finland
📌 A well-known debt collection agency focused on ethical and flexible customer service.
🌍 Website: kredinor.fi
3. Lowell Finland
📌 One of Finland’s largest debt collection agencies with customer-friendly services.
📞 Customer Service: +358 2 2700 300 (Mon-Fri 08:00–18:00)
🌍 Website: lowell.fi
📍 Useful Contacts and Resources
✔️ Finnish Regional State Administrative Agency (Debt Collection Supervision)
🌍 avi.fi
✔️ Finnish Consumer Ombudsman (Debt Collection Guidelines)
🌍 kkv.fi
✔️ Financial and Debt Counseling Services
Debt collection agencies in Finland operate under strict legal frameworks and must respect debtor rights. If you have an outstanding debt, it’s important to understand your rights, verify your debt, and dispute incorrect claims if necessary.
💡 Tip: If you’re struggling with debt payments, seek financial counseling or legal assistance before the situation escalates.