E-invoices are frequently a problem

Digital communication is a good thing. But it can also cost you time and money.

Every business uses e-mail, text messages, and social media. In today's competitive environment, swift and smooth operations are key, and doing things in real time with as few material and human resources as possible is the gold standard.

You are part of the do-it-yourself generation

This is why an increasing amount of processes are getting outsourced. Or to put it more accurately: processes are shifted from providers to clients, and that means you. You have to put together your own bookshelves from the furniture store, you have to pick up your café latte in a paper cup from the counter and you have to open your bank account yourself by scanning your passport and paycheck and uploading the pictures. And, just as a side note: all these are very sensitive documents to share online, especially in view of existing security gaps.

Service oftentimes means doing things yourself

"Service portals" on companies' websites have been designed for clients to check and edit their data whenever and wherever they want. New information relevant to clients is periodically uploaded to such portals. However, this so-called service has a catch: you now have to actively look for the information that was previously sent to you. Your active participation is key.

To do that, you will need your access data, and ultimately quite a bit of time. You have no choice but to take this time so you don't miss any important information. The problem is, especially consumers are increasingly short on time. If you stare at a computer screen for 20 or 30 hours per week, you don't feel like doing the same thing during your time off. 

If you do nothing, mistakes are bound to happen

Payment processes are increasingly being done online. Especially telecommunication providers strongly encourage clients to accept receiving e-invoices and to accept automatic debit, which is cost-efficient and effective for them. But this option does not just offer benefits for you because mistakes unfortunately do happen. In Great Britain, for example, the incredible amount of 650 million pounds of damage is recorded every year as a result of incorrect invoices sent out by energy providers, to the detriment of consumers!

Miscalculated: it's money you won't have in your pocket

If an invoice is too high and does not get disputed, your money will be gone for the time being. Take this example: if a mobile phone provider charges EUR 1,000 too much and if you do not check the invoice, the incorrect amount will be debited to your account. If you subsequently ask to get the difference back, you will receive a credit to your account, but not before the next invoice. And that might take some time.