Businesses, no matter what size, that rely on cash payments instead of credit cards, frequently need to turn to a business collection agency to assist in the collection and satisfaction of overdue accounts.
There are a few different business models when it comes to collection agencies, so as you do your research it’s a good idea to understand your own needs vs. What each agency can and will do for you. Most will work on a contingency basis, keeping a percentage of whatever they collect on your behalf. This process alone is why so many consumers complain loudly about the practices of collection agencies. They can become very aggressive, frequently overstepping their bounds and bordering on illegal activities, just to collect funds in order make money.
Before signing a contract or providing information on your clients, call the Better Business Bureau and check on reports. If there are a few consumer complaints, especially ones that aren’t resolved, you should stop right there and find someone else. Remember, your reputation is at stake, too.
If you have never used a collection agency it would behoove you to gain a good understanding of what the federal and state laws are regarding consumer privacy and protection regulations, and make sure you hire a collections firm that understands them and abides by them. Ask pointed questions about their collection policies and how they plan on helping you get your receivables up to date.
Be prepared to pay about 50% of what the agency collects for you. This might sound high but remember they are doing all the work. Their overhead is typically pretty high, especially if they are unsuccessful in collecting money for you or even them.
Large corporations might even have a collection agency on retainer. This only works well if you have a really bad time with clients paying, and if the agency is successful in getting your clients to pay up. Sending monthly checks with poor results is just poor business practice.
Normally, you wouldn’t have a collection deal with one of your customers for at least three or four months, and only then would you have them contact the customers if they have been unresponsive to your previous requests for at least partial payments or for them to outline a possible payment plan. In today’s business world, everyone is having some financial difficulties – even your best long term customers. Handing them over to a collection agency could force them to take future business elsewhere. Is it really worth it in the long run?
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