The word ‘debt collection’ doesn’t exactly evoke warm feelings for everyone. The term is often associated with threatening letters and impersonal procedures, while in reality things are often more nuanced. Still, the industry suffered from a lack of clear rules and from a number of parties taking a rather “creative” approach to collection services. This prompted the legislator to step in, and the Debt Collection Services Quality Act (abbreviated: Wki) was born.
The scope of the law (spoiler: it applies to you sooner than you might think!)
The Wki applies to all commercial parties—except government institutions—that collect debts on behalf of another party . It’s therefore a misconception that the law only applies to collection agencies; debtor management offices, accounting firms, homeowners’ associations (HOAs), collection lawyers, and bailiffs must also comply with the law.
Register first, collect later
Debt collection service providers are required to register in the Debt Collection Services Register , which is accessible to everyone.
Without registration, a company is not allowed to carry out debt collection activities. If it does so anyway, sanctions may follow. Moreover, as of 2026, if a debtor is contacted by an unregistered company (or one with a suspended registration), they are not required to pay interest or collection fees. This remains the case even if a properly registered company later gets involved. So, be careful who you do business with—the financial consequences can be lasting .
Quality is no longer a choice, but an obligation
The Wki also sets quality standards for collection service providers. First, all employees are required to be professionally qualified . In addition, claims must be transparent , and debtors must be treated properly . Furthermore, all activities must be properly documented . Finally, the collection service provider must have an internal complaints procedure and be affiliated with a dispute resolution body .
Curious how Aertery has implemented these requirements? Or looking for support with applying the Wki within your organization—for example, through training or a review of your reminders? Feel free to contact us!
