Glossary of official German
31 words you will find in letters from German authorities – explained in plain English, with a sentence as it appears in the letter.
AkteneinsichtYour right to see the authority's documents on your case.
AktenzeichenThe number under which the authority handles your case.
AnhörungThe chance to comment before the authority decides.
Aussetzung der VollziehungAn application to postpone a payment until the objection is decided.
BekanntgabeThe day a decision counts as having reached you.
BescheidA binding decision by an authority about your case.
BestandskraftA decision is final because nobody objected in time.
Betriebskosten (Nebenkosten)Running costs of a building that the landlord passes on to tenants.
EinspruchYour objection to a tax or fine notice.
FiktionsbescheinigungA document confirming your residence until your application is decided.
FristThe period within which you must act.
FristverlängerungA request for more time.
Gelber Umschlag (Postzustellungsurkunde)A letter whose delivery is formally certified.
GenehmigungsfiktionAn application counts as approved because the authority decided too late.
InkassoA company that collects debts for others.
KündigungsschutzklageThe claim at the labour court against a dismissal.
MahnbescheidA letter from the local court in which someone demands money from you.
MahnungA payment reminder, usually with a new deadline.
MitwirkungThe duty to submit documents the authority needs for your benefit.
Ortsübliche VergleichsmieteWhat is usually paid for comparable flats in your town.
RatenzahlungPaying an amount in several parts.
RechtsbehelfsbelehrungThe paragraph at the end of a decision telling you how and by when you can challenge it.
SozialklauselThe right to object to a notice on your flat because of special hardship.
SäumniszuschlagA surcharge because a payment came late.
TextformA readable declaration, e.g. letter, e-mail or fax – no signature needed.
VerjährungAfter a certain time a claim can no longer be enforced.
VollstreckungsbescheidThe step after the payment order: it allows enforcement.
WerktagFor deadlines: every day except Saturday, Sunday and public holidays.
WiderspruchYour objection to a decision, e.g. from the Jobcenter or health insurer.
ZugangThe day a letter actually reached you.
ZustellungFormal service of a letter, usually in a yellow envelope.