Overbetaling

Overbetaling is the payment of more money than is due, or the receipt of more funds than warranted. It can occur in business transactions, payroll, government benefits, tax refunds, or consumer refunds. The excess may arise from administrative errors, miscalculations, duplicate payments, misapplied discounts or credits, or changes in agreements that are not properly recorded.

Common examples include an employer paying an employee more than their salary, a customer paying an invoice for a higher amount than owed, or a government agency crediting a benefit or tax refund beyond entitlement. In each case the party who has received or paid the excess typically seeks to correct the situation.

Legal and financial consequences vary by jurisdiction and contract terms. Generally, the party that overpaid has a right to recover the excess; this may involve a formal reclaim, a deduction from future payments, or a repayment plan. Interest or penalties may apply, and there may be time limits for reclaiming funds. In some contexts, arrangements such as offsetting future wages or credits are used to settle the overpayment.

Prevention and handling rely on controls and clear communication. Practices include accurate record-keeping, automated checks, regular reconciliation, and prompt notification of discrepancies. If an overpayment occurs, the parties should document the error, agree on a repayment method, and monitor subsequent transactions to ensure full correction.

Related terms include overcharge, duplicate payment, and restitution.