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Letter template to dispute an invoice
If an invoice is wrong, dispute it in writing and quickly: give the reasons, ask for a corrected invoice or a credit note and state that you are withholding the disputed amount. The template above already has the structure; add your reasons and enclose the documents.
- Reasons as a list, request for a credit note, payment withheld
- Ready-made text in English, German, French and Italian
- Swiss format, envelope window on the left or right
- Free PDF, no sign-up, data stays in your browser
- Letters saved in your browser: find, duplicate and correct them
- Sender and logo entered once, for all tools
Template text
This is the text already in the letter above. You can also copy it from here.
Dispute of invoice no. [number] of [date]
Dear Sir or Madam,
Kind regards
Before you send it
- Defective goods: notify defects as soon as you discover them (art. 201 CO); for a contract for work, art. 367 and 370 CO.
- Give precise reasons and enclose documents: quotation, delivery note, photos.
- Pay the undisputed part when due.
- Against a payment order for a disputed amount, file an objection within 10 days (art. 74 SchKG).
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How to dispute an invoice in three steps
- 1
Fill in the parts in brackets
The template is already in the letter above: replace the parts in [ ] with dates, amounts and names, and delete what does not apply.
- 2
Sender and recipient
You enter your details once and they stay for your next letters. The recipient goes in the envelope window.
- 3
Download, sign, send
Download the PDF, sign it and send it, by registered mail when the date of receipt matters.
Your data stays yours
The letter is created in your browser. The page sends no data to any server, not even to Lema: its security policy (CSP) prevents it. With the Data button you can download a backup of all tools, load it on another computer or delete everything.
Frequently asked questions
How soon must I dispute an invoice? +
As soon as possible. For defective goods the law requires you to notify defects as soon as you discover them (art. 201 CO); for a contract for work, art. 367 CO applies. Waiting can cost you your rights.
Do I have to pay an invoice I dispute? +
You can withhold the disputed part. Pay the undisputed part when due, so you are not in default for it.
What should the letter say? +
Invoice number, date and amount, the precise reasons (amount differs from the quotation, goods not delivered or defective, work not done) and what you ask for: a corrected invoice or a credit note. Enclose the quotation, delivery note, photos.
What if I receive a payment order? +
If you dispute the claim, file an objection (Rechtsvorschlag) within 10 days of service (art. 74 SchKG).
Indicative template, provided as is: it is not legal advice.