Getting my startup off the ground

Three Important Precautions for Working with a Debt Collection Agency

by Remie Van Der Hulst

If you are having trouble managing overdue debts, consider engaging a debt collector. In general, offering credit to customers is beneficial because it allows consumers to access goods without the pressure of immediate payment. However, some consumers will take advantage and fail to pay for the goods within the agreed-upon schedule. Recovering the money can be challenging, so you should consider using a professional agency for collection. Here are some essential tips for minimising complications when working with a debt collector.

Check the Reputation

Poor practices during debt collection can ruin your business reputation. Therefore, you must ensure that the chosen agency has a good reputation before engagement. You should make certain the business has the appropriate permits, licences and accreditation for operation. Ideally, the company should be a member of a professional organisation involved in credit management. Also, check on the different businesses that the debt collector has served to confirm their credibility. Additionally, check consumer feedback through the company website, independent review sites and social media.

Understand Compliance

Debt collection is a sensitive practice, and the wrong choices could attract legal suits. Therefore, you must follow the laws in place to protect debtors from undue harassment and harm. When hiring a debt collection agency, you must ensure that they will obey the guidelines for recovery. Keep in mind that debt collectors have to follow the right to privacy when asking for payment, establishing a plan for collection or following up on credit lines. Moreover, a professional cannot harass, coerce or use physical force to get the amount owed. Check the laws in place and avoid breaking the rules.

Consider Convenience

You should determine the convenience of working with different debt collectors. The right choice will streamline your credit management system, minimising bad debts and the waste of labour. For instance, physical meetings can cause extensive time wastage in debt recovery. Therefore, choose a company that can provide online access to essential services. Also, consider the average time taken to recover debts from creditors. A high success rate is desirable for the overall efficiency of the business. Additionally, learn about the flexibility of the company. Inquire about the method for remitting recovered payment, the invoicing options and the ease of lodging a lawsuit against creditors where necessary. Finally, discuss the cost of debt collection services to avoid disagreements with the agency. The expenses for recovering overdue payments can vary, depending on factors like the amount, the account age, the unique tasks required for the work and contingency.  

For more information, contact a local debt collection agency

Share