Fee increases: Consumer advocates win against Berliner Sparkasse

Fee increases: Consumer advocates win against Berliner Sparkasse

Berliner Sparkasse has suffered a defeat in court, potentially allowing customers to receive refunds. The Federal Association of Consumer Organizations had filed a lawsuit against the Sparkasse's unannounced cost increases, which led to the court's decision in favor of the customers. The Berliner Sparkasse had increased the account management fees several times without the consent of the customers, which the court considered inadmissible. According to the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations, customers can now hope for refunds as soon as the judgment is final.

The Berlin Court of Appeal confirmed the consumer advice center's view and Berliner Sparkasse customers could look forward to potential refunds. It was determined that the claims could be time-barred, which led to an examination of a possible appeal by consumer advocates. This class action lawsuit was supported by approximately 1,200 customers who were dissatisfied with the unilateral fee increases.

The ruling against Berliner Sparkasse could also have an impact on customers of other banks that have made similar unreasonable fee increases. According to reports, the affected banks include Postbank, Deutsche Bank, ING Diba, Commerzbank and Sparkasse Ulm. Customers who experience unwanted fee changes between January 2018 and April 2024 may be eligible for refunds. The consumer advice center provides sample letters that customers can use to claim back money that they have paid too much.

Niels Nauhauser from the Baden-Württemberg consumer advice center emphasized that the fee increases in recent years were not legal and that customers have the right to demand these funds back from their bank. It is recommended that you review bank statements from January 2018 to see if there have been any unwanted fee increases. If this is the case, customers can take action and request a refund.