Court of Appeal strengthens consumers: Berliner Sparkasse has to pay back money

Court of Appeal strengthens consumers: Berliner Sparkasse has to pay back money

Berliner Sparkasse lost in court against the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations due to unannounced cost increases, giving customers the opportunity to demand a refund. A monthly account management fee is standard for savings bank customers, but additional costs could arise for transfers or account statements. The consumer advice center had filed a lawsuit against Berliner Sparkasse because it had changed the fees without notifying customers.

The Chamber Court confirmed the lawsuit brought by the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations and found that the customers were right. Berliner Sparkasse had increased account costs several times without obtaining customers' consent. As a result, customers can expect refunds once the judgment is final. It is estimated that approximately 1,200 customers are participating in the class action, although the court is considering an appeal due to the statute of limitations on the claims.

In addition to Berliner Sparkasse, other banks could also be affected by similar problems. Illegal fee increases were observed at various financial institutions, including Postbank, Deutsche Bank, ING DiBa, Commerzbank and Sparkasse Ulm. Customers who experience unauthorized fee increases between January 2018 and April 2024 may be eligible for refunds. The consumer advice center provides a sample letter to help customers claim back the money they have paid too much.

Niels Nauhauser from the Baden-Württemberg consumer advice center emphasized that the past fee increases were ineffective and customers were entitled to demand the money back from their bank. It is recommended that you review the price schedule when opening an account to determine the legitimacy of the cost increases.