Sunday, 1 September 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. A simple rule is that you will be paid depending on your efficiency. Ensure that you have included a breakdown of the details of the product, all costs, and dates. Update everything on the invoice before taking any further action.

Ensure that a statement is sent only after the payment date has passed. The report should only specify the amount that needs to be settled and when the cash should be paid. If the borrower does not respond, then you have to send them another letter reminding them of their debt. Ensure that you use polite words to avoid offending the debtor.

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. No one in business relishes the thought of taking such an extreme action. However, it is unavoidable at times. Being patient may not be good for business, especially if you are owed a lot of money. You should, however, seek professional legal advice before taking any action.

You can also go for the Small Claims Court. This can be helpful particularly for a smaller amount of money. However, you have to produce evidence showing the efforts that you have made to settle the debt with the borrower.

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.




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