Verbindlichkeitsmanagement

Verbindlichkeit is a German noun meaning a binding obligation or commitment. Etymology traces to ver- and binden, reflecting something that binds a person or organization to act or fulfill a duty. In general usage it covers both legal obligations and social commitments; in finance, the term has a closely related but technical sense: Verbindlichkeit (plural Verbindlichkeiten) denotes a liability, i.e., an amount owed to another party under a present obligation.

In law, Verbindlichkeit describes an obligation arising from contracts, statutes, or quasi-contracts. It creates a duty to perform, and typically a corresponding claim on the other side if performance does not occur. Civil-law systems, including Germany’s civil code (BGB), regulate the creation, performance, and enforcement of such obligations; remedies can include specific performance, damages, or termination of the obligation.

In accounting and corporate finance, Verbindlichkeiten are liabilities recorded on the balance sheet. They are categorized as current (short-term) liabilities due within one year and non-current liabilities due later. Common examples include accounts payable (Lieferverbindlichkeiten), loans (Bankverbindlichkeiten), and tax or social-security obligations (Steuerschulden, Sozialverbindlichkeiten). Interest accrues, and repayment terms influence the financial statements and covenants.

In everyday language, “verbindlich” describes something binding or obligatory, such as a “verbindliche Zusage” (binding offer) or a person who is reliable. The term thus spans legal, financial, and social domains, always implying a duty or consequence that binds a party to act or to uphold a commitment.