fineslip

A fineslip is a document issued by a government or enforcing authority that records a monetary penalty imposed for a specified offense. It serves as both notice of the offense and a bill for payment, outlining the amount due, due date, and how to pay. Fineslips are used to collect penalties in a variety of situations, including traffic violations, parking offenses, public transit infractions, and certain administrative breaches. In some jurisdictions the term fineslip is used interchangeably with penalty notice, citation, or notice to pay.

Typical contents

- Reference or case number

- Offender information (where applicable, such as name or vehicle registration)

- Date, time, and location of the offense

- Statute, regulation, or code violated

- Description of the offense

- Amount of the fine and any processing fees

- Due date and accepted payment methods

- Information on rights to contest or request a hearing

- Consequences of nonpayment

Issuance and processing

Fineslips can be issued at the point of offense (on-the-spot fines) or sent after an investigation or review. After issuance, the recipient may typically pay the amount by the specified deadline or request an appeal if eligible. If payment is not made or a contest is not pursued, the enforcing authority may take steps such as reminders, increased penalties, suspension of privileges, or, in some jurisdictions, formal legal action.

Variants and related terms

The concept is common worldwide but the terminology varies. In many places, a fineslip is closely related to or superseded by a parking ticket, traffic citation, or penalty notice. The exact procedures and available avenues for dispute depend on local laws and regulations. See also: citation, ticket, penalty notice.