Payment made with bank card on an empty account

Hello People,

The thing is that I shopped at Penny Markt a year ago and paid with my Sparkasse card. It was unknown to me that my account didn't have enough money and today I recieved this letter from Polizei stating that I did so and so.
So does anybody know what I shall do now?? The letter says I have to pay a fine but it doesn't state how much PLUS do I need to hire a lawyer or should I directly talk to the Ansprechpartner (His number is given in the letter as well).

Please let me know guys. I am not sure if this little thing could create problems for my Visa in future :-(

Any suggestions are most welcome.

Thanks.

Christine.

Just pay the fine, problem solved.

Just called the contact person listed on the letter and explain your situation. Believe it or not, some Germans can be very understanding and helpful. I often start off conversations like that with "I hope you can help me" or something similar. And then, afterwards, I say "thank you very much for your help/efforts etc.".

Simply tell them that you didn't know that your account didn't have any money in it, and that you will of course pay the fine immediately. And for the future, you should ask your bank about "Dispokredit" - i.e. overdraft credit.

It seems strange that you haven't heard anything for an entire year - I'd query why they took so long? Also what's the problem with explaining to the 'Ansprechpartner', or even calling in at the Penny Markt and speaking to the manager. As long as you're willing to pay up, there shouldn't be a problem.