What should you do if you have already fallen into the procedure?
In the previous part, we explained what Betreibung (debt enforcement) and Konkurs (bankruptcy proceedings) mean in Switzerland. Now let’s look at it in practice:
❗ What happens if Betreibung has already started?
1️⃣ The “Zahlungsbefehl” (payment order) arrives
If you receive an official letter from the Betreibungsamt, it usually means:
Someone is claiming money from you
The procedure has officially started
This is not yet bankruptcy – but it must be taken seriously
Important deadlines
If you do not respond, the procedure may automatically continue.
2️⃣ What comes next if you do not pay and there is no objection?
In this case, the matter usually goes in two possible directions:
🔹 Pfändung (seizure) – mainly for private individuals
The authority may assess your ability to pay and initiate:
wage deductions
bank account examination
assessment of assets
⚠️ Good to know: In Switzerland there is a minimum subsistence level (Existenzminimum). This means that the basic amount necessary for living expenses must generally remain untouched.
🔹 Konkurs (bankruptcy proceedings) – typically for companies
If a business (e.g. GmbH, AG) becomes insolvent, the Betreibung may even lead toward Konkurs.
🛑 What should you do if you have already received a Betreibung?
✅ 1. Do not panic
Betreibung is not prison, and it does not automatically mean that “everything is lost.”
✅ 2. Check the claim
Is the debt real?
Has a mistake occurred?
If you believe it is not justified, it is advisable to file an objection (Rechtsvorschlag) within 10 days.
✅ 3. Talk to the creditor
In many cases, even at this stage, it is possible to:
✅ 4. Ask for help from debt counseling services
In Switzerland, debt counseling services (Schuldenberatung) are available, where they can help with:
❓ What happens with the “Betreibungsauszug”?
The Betreibung may be recorded in the Betreibungsauszug (official extract), which is often requested for:
👉 That is why quick reaction and settlement are extremely important.
📌 When does the situation become truly dangerous?
Especially if:
multiple Betreibungen are initiated within a short period
you do not respond to letters
the process moves toward Pfändung or Konkurs
🎯 Swiss TV Info Tip
In Switzerland, many people fall into difficult financial situations, for example due to:
unemployment
illness
divorce
high living costs
The system is strict, but predictable.
The worst decision: not to react.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. In a specific case, it is advisable to consult a professional or an official advisory service.
