Monday, September 2, 2013

9 Simple And Useful Debt Collection Tips

By Kate McMahon


Research indicates that more people are now failing to repay their loans on time more than ever before. If you want your business to remain viable, you have to ensure that you get your money on time so that you can make it flow and make more profits. Below are some important debt collection tips that you may find beneficial.

Invoice efficiently. If you want to be paid on time, then be efficient. Have a well-detailed invoice to accompany the product if possible. Break down the costs, the details of the item, and the expected payment dates. Review everything before sending it to the client.

If the stated date has passed and you have not received any payment or communication, then send a statement. Ensure that you state the amount and the date on which you expected the payment. This should get you at least a response from the debtor, but if it does not, then send them a reminder letter. Be polite and just remind them of your concerns.

Be flexible. Sometimes, you may find that your debtor is willing to pay, but the conditions are not suitable. In such a case, then you should be able to renegotiate the terms. Provide a schedule and even an installment amount that would not hurt your business, but still be comfortable for the client.

Be precise. Most businesses that are affected by delayed payments allow customers to control things. This should not be the case, ensure that you get a commitment letter from the client on the exact amount they are willing to pay on given dates. This will ensure that there is no misunderstanding between you and the debtor.

If the debtor does not respond after sending a reminder letter, then you should call them. Be sure to inquire whether the client has received the messages sent previously. Inquire about their willingness to clear the debts and financial status. This will enable you to know the action to take afterwards.

Send a final reminder letter. This is not about reminding them to pay the debt, but of the actions you would take to recover the debt. For instance, you may warn them of refusing future credits. Another option could be to take statutory action.

Consider legal action. Not anyone in business would wish to take this route. However, if you have made attempts and nothing is forthcoming, then you may be left with no choice. Take to a professional legal adviser to help you decide the best approach to take.

If things get worse, you can also opt for Small Claims Court. If you have a small amount of debt, then this could be the best option. However, the court may only listen to your case if you have proof that all attempts on your part to reach an agreement have been futile.

Debt collection tips may come in handy when things have gone out of hand. However, you may avoid such situations you can reduce risks to your business by equipping yourself with effective credit management skills. This will ensure that you do not end up with clients who do not pay debts in good time.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment