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What does Vermögensauskunft mean?

In the Vermögensauskunft (statement of assets), you tell the bailiff what you own and earn. It used to be commonly called Offenbarungseid.

die Vermögensauskunft · die Vermögensauskünfte (plural)

The bailiff (Gerichtsvollzieher) summons you when a creditor wants to enforce a claim. Your statements must be true and complete.

If you do not come, the court can issue an arrest warrant. Take the appointment very seriously.

Afterwards, your name can be entered in the register of debtors (Schuldnerverzeichnis). Banks and landlords, for example, can see it.

You can often still agree instalments with the bailiff beforehand.

Example sentence

Sie werden aufgefordert, am 19.11.2026 um 09:00 Uhr die Vermögensauskunft abzugeben.

You are summoned to give the Vermögensauskunft on 19.11.2026 at 09:00.

What you can do

Take the letter to a debt advice centre (Schuldnerberatung) immediately. Bring proof of your income, accounts and debts.

  • Gerichtsvollzieher The Gerichtsvollzieher (bailiff) collects debts for creditors. They may, for example, seize things or ask about your assets.
  • Pfändung Pfändung (seizure) means a Gläubiger takes money or things from you with the state's help to collect a debt.
  • Gläubiger A Gläubiger (creditor) is a person, company or office that you owe money to, or that claims you do.
  • Schuldnerberatung A Schuldnerberatung (debt advice centre) helps people with debts get an overview and find a way out.
  • Termin A Termin is a fixed day and time when you should come to an office, a court or a doctor.