15% of users detect erroneous charges each year, with average losses of €250 for consumers and up to €1,000 for small businesses. Knowing how to claim can lead to significant savings.
15% of bank users in Spain detect at least one erroneous charge in their accounts each year, according to a recent study. These mistakes result in an average loss of €250 annually per consumer, a figure that multiplies in the case of businesses, where it can reach €1,000 for the smallest enterprises.
Recovering that money not only eases household finances but also improves business liquidity and confidence in the financial system. The process, while requiring attention, is accessible and within reach of any bank customer.
The Five Most Common Charges
The most frequent claims focus on five concepts: unauthorized charges on debit or credit cards; fees for services not contracted or poorly explained; undue payments in mortgage instalments; costs of establishing mortgages; and floor clauses that have increased monthly payments for years.
Each of these cases has a similar claim procedure, but the deadline to initiate it is only three months from when the charge is detected. After this time, the right to claim expires.
How to Claim Step by Step
The first step is to submit the claim in writing to the customer service department of the bank or to its customer defender. It is essential to keep a record of the date and content of the complaint.
If a month passes without a response or the solution is unsatisfactory, one can turn to the Complaints Service of the Bank of Spain. This body analyses the case free of charge and issues a motivated report within a maximum of 90 days.
Once the report is received, the entity has one month to accept or reject the resolution. Although the ruling of the Bank of Spain is not binding, most entities comply with it to avoid damaging their reputation.
Economic Impact of Claims
The return of these undue charges could inject up to €500 million annually into the pockets of Spanish consumers, according to industry estimates. That money, when allocated to consumption or investment, stimulates the local economy and improves the payment capacity of families and businesses.
For freelancers and small businesses, recovering amounts of up to €1,000 a year can make the difference between facing an unexpected expense or having to resort to external financing. Moreover, the process encourages greater transparency from banking entities.
The three-month deadline is the main hurdle for many users, who often discover the error when it has already expired. Therefore, experts recommend reviewing bank statements every month and keeping all documentation of contracted products.
Claiming not only allows for the recovery of money but also sends a clear message to the entities: customers are vigilant and willing to defend their rights. In a context of rising interest rates and increasing credit costs, this additional saving takes on special significance.
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