Debt collector — Forbrukertilsynet · Norway

Direct answer

First ask the collector, in writing, to prove the debt: the original contract, the invoices, and their authority to collect. Until they do, you dispute it and they must stop calling. Collection fees must stay within the legal caps and cannot be added to a disputed or unproven debt. Forbrukertilsynet (23 400 600) takes complaints about collectors who threaten, add illegal fees or ignore disputes. If the debt is real but you cannot pay, NAV — økonomisk rådgivning (800GJELD) (55 55 33 39) helps for free. Only a court can order you to pay — Forliksrådet (politiet.no) is where a real claim would go, and where you can object.

Call firstForbrukertilsynet

Report toNAV — økonomisk rådgivning (800GJELD)

If that failsForliksrådet

🗣️ What to say

"I dispute the debt you refer to in your letter of [date], reference [number]. Please send me the original agreement, the invoices and proof that you are authorised to collect it. Until then, stop all contact except in writing and do not add any costs."

🪜 Step by step

Do not pay a "partial" amountPaying anything can be read as acknowledging the whole debt and restarting the limitation period. Dispute first.
Ask for proof in writingContract, invoices, authorisation. Give a deadline. A collector without proof has nothing.
Check the fees and the ageCollection costs are capped by law in most countries, and old debts may be time-barred. NAV — økonomisk rådgivning (800GJELD) checks this with you for free.
Complain to ForbrukertilsynetHarassment, calls at work, threats, fees beyond the cap, chasing a disputed debt — all reportable.
If they go to courtYou will receive a court letter, never just a collector's threat. Object within the deadline on the letter; Forliksrådet explains how.

📇 All contacts

ForbrukertilsynetGuidance and mediation between you and the seller, freeWhen the shop refuses📞 23 400 600 🔗 www.forbrukertilsynet.no

NAV — økonomisk rådgivning (800GJELD)Free debt advice, debt settlement via the enforcement officerAs soon as bills cannot be paid📞 55 55 33 39 🔗 www.nav.no/okonomi-og-gjeld

ForliksrådetLow-cost first instance for money claimsOutside HTU's area or when the decision is disputed🔗 www.politiet.no/tjenester/forliksradet

Fri rettshjelp (Statsforvalteren) / Jussbuss, JURKLegal aid on low income; free student legal clinicsWhen you cannot afford a lawyer🔗 www.statsforvalteren.no/portal/folk-og-samfunn/fri-rettshjelp

❓ Frequently asked

Can a collector seize my things?

No. Only a bailiff with a court order can. A collector who claims otherwise is breaking the rules — report it.

The debt is real but I cannot pay

Say so in writing, propose a payment plan you can keep, and ask NAV — økonomisk rådgivning (800GJELD) for help. Collectors accept realistic plans more often than people think.

Can it damage my credit record?

Only registered defaults and court judgments do; a collector's letter does not. If they registered a disputed debt, demand its removal and complain.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

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