What happens after you dispute an invoice?

By Mallbutiken · Facts verified October 1, 2026

A dispute does not automatically resolve the matter. It indicates that the payment demand is contested. Subsequently, the parties can resolve the issue, the creditor may waive the claim, a debt collection notice may be sent, or the dispute may ultimately need to be adjudicated by the National Board for Consumer Disputes (ARN) or a court.

1. The company reviews your objection

The company may credit the invoice, correct it, ask for more information, or stand by the claim. Respond objectively and continue to document all communication. A well-founded dispute should be linkable to an agreement, delivery, price, or other concrete circumstance.

2. Reminders may still be sent

An automated payment reminder may arrive even if the invoice has been disputed. Respond to it by referring to the previous dispute. Save this communication as well.

3. Debt collection

If the claim goes to a debt collection agency, you should object to the collection notice if you still believe it is incorrect. The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority states that a collection notice does not in itself result in a record of non-payment (payment default). A factually grounded objection must be investigated by the collection agency.

4. ARN for consumer disputes

If you are a consumer, the dispute can in many cases be heard by the National Board for Consumer Disputes (ARN). ARN issues a recommendation after assessing the parties' written evidence. Check the board's current value thresholds and time limits before filing a complaint.

5. Application for a payment order with the Swedish Enforcement Authority

The creditor can apply for a payment order. If you receive an order, you must respond within the deadline stated in the document. Acknowledging receipt of service is not the same as approving the claim.

If you object and the creditor wishes to proceed, they may request that the case be referred to court for adjudication. It is therefore misleading to say that a dispute automatically “ends” the matter for good.

6. Court

In court, the parties' claims and evidence are assessed based on legal grounds. It is incorrect to generally say that "the burden of proof lies with the party disputing the invoice." Who must prove what depends on which circumstance is in dispute. For example, a company demanding payment may need to show that an agreement exists and what was agreed upon, while someone claiming payment or a specific counter-circumstance may need to substantiate that.

If the Swedish Enforcement Authority has already issued a ruling

There are special rules regarding recovery when the debtor wants to have a ruling reviewed by a court. Always follow the exact instructions and deadline in the decision; do not use older online guides that specify a general, outdated deadline.