German-law context: This page relates to German law and German automotive claims practice. It provides operational information, not individual legal advice.
The dealership may identify that the topic exists but should not provide individual legal advice or automatically include it in the workshop invoice.
Purpose of the allowance
It is intended to cover minor accident-related expenses without requiring proof of every telephone call or postage item.
Not a workshop service
The allowance belongs to the injured party’s claim. Workshop administrative work is governed by the workshop’s own commercial relationship and invoice positions.
Avoid double counting
Specific proven expenses and a flat allowance may require legal distinction. The workshop should not combine positions without a clear basis.
Clean handover
Where a lawyer handles the claim, the customer’s incidental positions can be included in the legal claim file while the workshop invoice remains technically focused.
Frequently asked questions
How high is the allowance?
Amounts vary in practice and case law. Current legal advice should be obtained where necessary.
Does the customer need receipts?
A flat allowance is intended to avoid detailed proof, but specific circumstances may differ.
Can the workshop claim it?
Not as its own customer-claim position.
Why include this topic on a business website?
Because role confusion creates invoice and legal-services risks even for small amounts.
Frank Roll, MSc, MBA
Automotive claims management specialist working at the interface between dealerships, insurers, automotive damage assessors and legal professionals since 1998. Author of Schadenmanagement im Autohaus and developer of the R-SOS management consulting system.
Last reviewed: July 2026 · The specialist book is currently available in German.