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How to understand a letter written in another language

Receiving a letter you cannot fully read is stressful, especially when it looks official. You do not need to understand every word straight away. Start with the few things that matter most.

Look for these five things first

1. Who sent it — the logo, the name at the top or the signature at the bottom.
2. The date of the letter and any other dates in the text. Dates often mean deadlines.
3. Reference or account numbers. You will need them if you reply.
4. Amounts of money, if any.
5. Words like “deadline”, “by”, “before”, “final”, “reminder” or “appeal” in the letter's language.

Get a faithful translation, not a summary

A summary can hide important conditions. When a letter is official, read a complete translation at least once and keep the original next to it. Names, numbers and dates must stay exactly as written.

HandleTheLetter shows a simple explanation first, then the complete translation, and lets you compare everything with the original page.

Check what you are asked to do

Many letters are for information only. Others ask you to pay, send documents, fill in a form or reply by a date. If the letter says how to reply — for example, only through a website — follow that method.

When to ask for help

If the letter is from a court, mentions legal action, immigration, debt collection or your health, or if you are unsure about a deadline, contact a qualified adviser or a free advice service as soon as possible. Bring the original letter with you.

HandleTheLetter provides document assistance, not legal advice. Always check important documents carefully.