Category: Collection Tips

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Collection Tips

How to Choose a Debt Collections Agency

 

If your team is facing challenges with outstanding debts or seeking to maximize your businesses collection rate, enlisting the services of a debt collection agency could be the solution you need. These specialized third-party collection companies can effectively manage and recover outstanding debts, allowing your team to allocate resources more efficiently. Leveraging the expertise of a reputable debt collection agency and the many debt recovery resources they offer can help you address financial burdens and redirect your focus towards achieving greater success and productivity.

Let’s break down what a debt collection agency is, what they do to help business owners, and how to choose one for your business.

 

What Are Debt Collection Agencies?

A debt collection agency helps businesses with their debt recovery. Their services include communicating with those businesses that owe their clients outstanding invoices, creating and handling arrangements for pay back what they owe, or taking lawful actions if they are unwilling to cooperate. 

 

Why Hire a Debt Collection Agency?

Managing clients that don’t pay their invoices can be tough if you own a business. Their withholding affects your ability to pay your own providers and employees, and can harm your reputation and financial health.  It’s normal for someone to be late with payments periodically, but when it becomes a habit, your team can devote too much time and resources on trying to get paid by that one client, when they would be free to focus on growth and working with more promising partners.

That’s where a debt collection agency comes in. You can focus on developing your business once you’ve partnered with one, knowing you can count on them to get the results you’re looking for.

Additionally, many have specific niches, working in industries that they have particular knowledge and expertise in, which maximizes their ability to deliver for you. (For example, Monetaria specializes in merchant cash advance collections and  B2B debt collection.)

 

How to Choose a Debt Collections Agency

Now that you know why you need a debt collection agency, we’re going to address how to find one for your company. Several aspects should be taken into consideration, including the following:

Make sure the agency follows the law

When partnering with a debt collection agency, it is crucial to ensure their understanding and compliance with applicable federal and state laws governing debt recovery. 

To ensure legality and transparency in the process, it is highly recommended to choose an agency that employs experienced debt collection lawyers (like Monetaria!). This not only provides reassurance that all actions will be conducted in accordance with the law but also strengthens your confidence in the agency’s professionalism and expertise. 

Additionally, it is essential to verify that the debt collection agency you hire holds the necessary licenses as a legitimate debt collection entity. By taking these precautions, you can protect your interests and engage with a reputable agency that upholds legal and ethical standards in their debt recovery practices.

Consider the agency’s fees

Debt collection companies have different fees. Some take a portion of the money recovered, while others demand a flat cost. You should carefully analyze their cost structure and make sure it fits your needs and budget.

Consider the agency’s track record

Gather information about the agency’s track record by seeking referrals from accounting firms, business contacts, or industry associations. Checking online reviews and ratings can also be helpful. 

Look for an agency with experience in your specific industry as they will better understand its unique challenges.

Assess their communication and customer service

Effective communication is vital when working with a debt collection agency. Evaluate their responsiveness, clarity, and professionalism during your interactions with them. A reputable agency should have a dedicated customer service team that can address your concerns promptly and provide updates on the progress of debt collection efforts.

Selecting the right debt collection agency is crucial for your company’s success. By adhering to these guidelines, you can approach the decision with confidence, ensuring that you make a well-informed choice that aligns with your specific requirements and financial limitations. Remember, with the right agency by your side, you can effectively address outstanding debts, streamline operations, and propel your business towards greater heights than ever before.

 

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on collections, to ensure your business gets paid.

 

If you have unpaid debts that need to be recovered, commercial debt collection may be a good option for your business. A commercial debt collection agency can help you with the process of recovering past-due accounts and provide guidance on best practices for managing accounts receivable. 

Led by a team of experienced commercial debt collection attorneys, Monetaria Group has helped hundreds of businesses recover and collect their outstanding debts and payments. Schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team to see how we can help you recover your money today!

 

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B2B Collections Collection Tips

When Is It Time To Hire a Debt Collections Agency?

When Is It Time To Hire a Debt Collections Agency?

 

When it comes to managing finances, one of the most important things to do is to make sure that customers pay on time for the business to have consistent cash flow. 

Unfortunately, not all customers make their payments on time, which can result in problems for your own businesses, your vendors, and your ability to operate. In situations like these, seeking the services of a debt collection agency may help avoid these issues. 

When Is It Time to Hire a Debt Collections Agency?

One of the main signs that it’s time to hire a debt collection firm is when accounts are past due and payment reminders are ignored. It is a sign that you may require the assistance of a professional and when this occurs. Working with a debt collection agency can help recover unpaid bills, improve your company’s cash flow, and ensure your businesses financial security.

Related: Debt Collection Lawyer or Agency: Which One to Choose?

How to Choose the Right Debt Collections Agency?

Finding the most reputable debt collection agency is necessary to guarantee the best results. Conducting thorough research and screening procedures on potential  agencies is important. You should inquire about the agency’s industry expertise and their  adherence to federal and state rules surrounding collection activities. You should also ask for references. The chosen collection agency should communicate and report openly and honestly, keeping you informed of the current state of the debt collection activities.

Related: How To Hire A Debt Collection Agency

Why Should You Hire a Debt Collections Agency?

Businesses struggling to be paid back will get a lot of value and benefits by hiring a debt collection service. Here are the some key advantages:

  • Better cash flow:

  • Unpaid debts affect a business’s cash flow, not only slowing its ability to grow and develop, but to continue providing their ‘good’ clients the services they are paying for. A debt recovery will help a business get back what is theirs and secure their financial stability.

  • Save time and money:

    It can take a lot of time, energy, and money to go after people who owe you money, which takes time away from your business’s main tasks. A debt collection agency can handle the collection process, giving companies more time and resources to focus on work that brings in money.

  • Less chance of legal problems:

    Collecting unpaid debts on your own can be risky. Businesses can find themselves in trouble with the law if they break debt collection laws or don’t follow the rules. Experienced and licensed  debt collection agencies- like Monetaria- understand how the law works and operate within those boundaries to get the best results for their clients.

Related: How To Work With A Debt Collection Agency

Costs of Hiring a Debt Collections Agency

In most cases, the cost of hiring a debt collection agency varies by the kind of service provided alongside the payment structure. Debt collection agencies may charge hourly rates, flat fees, or contingency fees as payment for their services. Before engaging an agency, it is important to thoroughly understand the associated charges to prevent any unwelcome surprises later on.

We advise that businesses hire a debt collection service if they have debts that haven’t been paid, especially if they are more than 90–120 days late. When choosing an agency, look at their experience, image, and pricing and make sure they prioritize ethical and professional conduct. Also, it’s advisable that companies should have good credit and payment policies, talk to customers regularly, and keep track of reports on outstanding debts to reduce the need for debt collection agencies.

As the global economy recovers from the    COVID-19-induced economic slowdown, the need for debt collection agencies will likely grow, especially in industries like financial service providers, travel and hospitality companies, and others that were hit the hardest by the crisis. To continue offering reliable and efficient services to their clients, businesses must be prepared to employ the necessary tactics to collect what is owed to them, and know when it is time to hire a debt collections agency.

 

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on collections, to ensure your business gets paid.

If you have unpaid debts that need to be recovered, commercial debt collection may be a good option for your business. A commercial debt collection agency can help you with the process of recovering past-due accounts and provide guidance on best practices for managing accounts receivable. 

Led by a team of experienced commercial debt collection attorneys, Monetaria Group has helped hundreds of businesses recover and collect their outstanding debts and payments. Schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team to see how we can help you recover your money today!

 

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B2B Collections Collection Tips Merchant Cash Advance Collection Uncategorized

What Is A Debt Recovery Attorney?

Debt collection is an important aspect of business and financial management. Companies rely on timely payments from their clients to maintain their cash flow and financial stability, and when clients fail to pay their invoices, it can lead to a lot of problems, especially for small businesses. This is where debt collection attorneys come in.

Related: What is Commercial Debt Recovery and Collections?

What is a debt collection attorney?

A debt collection lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in helping businesses recover unpaid debts from nonpaying clients. These attorneys are skilled in developing strategies to recover debts and can explore their legal options if necessary. Their work may involve creating plans to collect payments, completing and filing legal paperwork, drafting demand letters, and representing creditors in court. 

When should I hire a debt recovery attorney?

There are several situations in which businesses may need to hire a debt collection attorney. For example, if a debt has been outstanding for a long time and legal action is required to recover it, a debt collection attorney can be a valuable resource. These attorneys are experts in the relevant laws and can help clients navigate the legal system to achieve a favorable outcome.

Demand letters are another effective tool for recovering debts without having to go to court. These letters inform the debtor of the outstanding debt and the legal action that may be taken if the debt is not paid. Debt collection attorneys can help businesses draft effective demand letters that comply with legal requirements and increase the likelihood of payment.

Another situation in which businesses may need to hire a debt collection attorney is when the debtor is a large company. Larger companies typically have more resources to fight against attempts to compel them to pay their debts. Debt collection attorneys who specialize in corporate debt collection can be valuable allies in these situations.

How to hire a debt collection attorney?

When hiring a debt collection lawyer, businesses should consider several factors. These include the attorney’s fees, their skills and experience in debt collection, their communication style, and whether they work independently or within a firm. References from past clients can also be helpful in assessing an attorney’s qualifications.

In some cases, businesses may opt to hire a collection agency instead of a debt collection attorney. Collection agencies specialize in recovering debts and can often do so more quickly and cost-effectively than attorneys. However, collection agencies cannot provide legal advice or represent clients in court. Businesses should consider the urgency of the situation, the likelihood of client payment, and how invested they are in taking legal action before deciding whether to hire a debt collection attorney or a collection agency. 

There are several third-party collection agencies with commercial debt collection attorneys on staff (like Monetaria!) to assist clients with all potential options at the outset of the project and is the best way to ensure you collect what is owed to you.What is a debt collection attorney?

Related: Commercial Debt Collection for Beginners

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on collections, to ensure your business gets paid.

If you have unpaid debts that need to be recovered, commercial debt collection may be a good option for your business. A commercial debt collection agency can help you with the process of recovering past-due accounts and provide guidance on best practices for managing accounts receivable. 

Led by a team of experienced commercial debt collection attorneys, Monetaria Group has helped hundreds of businesses recover and collect their outstanding debts and payments. Schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team to see how we can help you recover your money today!

 

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B2B Collections Collection Tips

Understanding Commercial Debt Collection

What is commercial debt collection? Here, the Monetaria Group team explains the process of business-to-business debt collection and recovery.

 

What is Commercial Debt?

Commercial debt collection refers to the process of business-to-business debt collection, recovering debts owed by one business to another, such as unpaid invoices or missed repayments. Recovering commercial debt can be a complex process that involves identifyingthe parties involved, determining the terms of the debt, and using legal or other means to collect payment.

There are a few ways for businesses to handle their commercial debt collection. One way is to handle the process in-house, using internal staff or the billing department to handle the invoicing and collections efforts. This team can focus on communicating with debtors and is a good option for small businesses with a limited number of outstanding debts. However, larger businesses may find that they lack the resources to devote to debt collection, or that they simply lack the expertise necessary to collect debts efficiently.

In such cases, businesses may choose to hire a third-party debt collection agency. These companies specialize in recovering unpaid invoices and receivables, and can often do so more efficiently and effectively than businesses can on their own, and free up the business owners’ time to chase new business instead of over-investing in delinquent clients. Debt recovery and collection agencies use a variety of tactics, such as negotiating payment plans and exploring legal options to try to collect the debt.

Commercial debt recovery may involve legal action, such as filing a lawsuit, obtaining a judgment, and garnishing wages or seizing assets to recover the debt. Legal action should be a last resort, as it can be costly and time-consuming, but may be necessary if other efforts have failed.

It is important for businesses to have a clear and effective process in place for recovering unpaid debts. This can help ensure that the company maintains cash flow and avoids financial hardship, and helps protect the company’s relationships with its own customers or suppliers.

Regulation of Commercial Debt Collection

Commercial collection services are regulated by a number of federal and state laws. These laws outline the rights and responsibilities of both the creditor (the business trying to collect the debt) and the debtor (the business that owes the debt).

At the federal level, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) sets out rules for how consumer debt collectors can interact with debtors. While the FDCPA applies to personal, family, and household debts, and not to debts incurred by businesses,  many states have their own debt collection laws that apply to commercial debts, and these laws may provide additional protections for debtors.

In addition to these laws, there are also industry-specific regulations that may apply to commercial debt recovery and collection. For example, the healthcare industry is subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which has provisions related to the collection of medical debts.

Collection agencies must be licensed and bonded before performing collections in most states, so it is critical to ensure that a third-party agency is qualified and credentialed for commercial debt collections before hiring them. The Monetaria Group is led by a team of debt collection attorneys who ensure that all debts and cases are being handled legally and competently, with no chance of trouble down the road.

Is Commercial Debt Collection the Right Choice for My Business?

When deciding whether to hire a commercial debt collection agency, businesses should consider factors such as the number of outstanding debts, the resources available for debt collection, and the expertise necessary to collect business debts efficiently. A larger number of outstanding debts or a lack of resources or expertise may make it more efficient to use a third-party agency.

However, businesses should be aware that using a collection agency may be expensive, and it’s important to carefully consider the costs and benefits before deciding whether to use one.

Commercial debt collection is a critical aspect of managing a business’s financial health. By having a clear process in place and working with experienced professionals, businesses can effectively recover unpaid debts and maintain a healthy bottom line.

 

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on collections, to ensure your business gets paid.

If you have unpaid debts that need to be recovered, commercial debt collection may be a good option for your business. A commercial debt collection agency can help you with the process of recovering past-due accounts and provide guidance on best practices for managing accounts receivable. 

Led by a team of experienced commercial debt collection attorneys, Monetaria has helped hundreds of businesses recover and collect their outstanding debts and payments. Schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team to see how we can help you recover your money today!

 

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Collection Tips

How To Work With A Debt Collection Agency

How To Recover Unpaid Invoices: Commercial Debt Collection FAQ's

We get it: you didn’t start your business to spend all your time chasing invoices and people that owe you for services rendered, but collecting payments is crucial to keeping your business on a stable and steady path to growth.

To help collect delinquent payments- at times after trying other means including mediation, suggested payment plans, and renegotiated settlements- business owners often hire a third-party collection agency experienced in debt recovery to assist them.

Working with a debt collection agency offers the business owner access to the resources and expertise of experienced debt collectors and gives the business the best chance of recovering what is owed to them, freeing up time and energy for the owner to continue concentrating on growing their business. Additionally, working with an agency that has debt collection lawyers on staff is helpful if they determine that the best course of action is to pursue an outcome through the legal system while ensuring compliance with state and federal collection regulations.

Here are 3 tips for using the services of a debt collection agency, and the best way to work with them:

1. You should provide them with all the information they need to begin their work.

Even with all their experience and expertise, they can only work with the information you give them. This will include contact information for the debtor, the amount of the debt, any records related to the client and their account, and any other relevant information. Withholding details can hinder your chances of recovering what is owed to you.

2. It is important to maintain regular communication with the debt collection agency throughout the process.

This allows you to stay informed of the progress and ensure that the agency is following the agreed-upon process. You should also inform them whenever something happens related to the debt they are working on recovering occurs (eg: the debtor reaches out to you, they make a payment, etc.) and keep them apprised of any developments on your end.

3. Set realistic goals and timelines:

Collection agencies have an array of tactics available at their disposal to pursue debtors, and it is important to understand the process and how to best work with a debt collection agency to ensure the best outcome for both parties. When setting goals and timelines for a debt collection, consider the amount and age of the debt, and the debtor’s ability to pay, along with the strategy you have chosen to collect with. While debt recovery can be a time-consuming and energy-sapping ordeal, open and honest communication between all stakeholders will make it a considerably more pleasant experience.

 

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on bookkeeping, to ensure your business gets paid.

If you have unpaid debts that need to be recovered, commercial debt collection may be a good option for your business. A commercial debt collection agency can help you with the process of recovering past-due accounts and provide guidance on best practices for managing accounts receivable. 

Led by a team of experienced debt collection attorneys, Monetaria has helped hundreds of businesses recover and collect their outstanding debts and payments. Schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team to see how we can help you recover your money today!

 

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Collection Tips

How To Hire A Debt Collection Agency

Monetaria Group explains how to choose the right debt recovery agency for you.

 

If you’re a business owner or manager, it’s likely you’ve had to face the reality of trying to recover payments from delinquent customers and clients who don’t pay their bills. While the occasional late payment- while irritating- is to be expected, if it becomes a regular occurrence, missed payments can be exceptionally harmful to the long-term health of your business, and it may be time to consider hiring a debt collection agency.  

A debt collection agency can provide valuable services in helping a business retrieve the money it’s owed, but it’s important to do your research. In a saturated industry filled with murky ethics and gray lines, it can be hard to choose the right debt recovery agency for your needs that also reflects your values.

Here are 5 tips explaining how to hire a debt collection agency:

When you’ve found a debt collection agency that interests you, perhaps referred by a friend or you found one online, it’s important to do your research.

Step 1: Make sure the agency is compliant with federal and state laws

It is absolutely imperative that any debt collection agency you work with understands and is compliant with all relevant federal and state laws related to debt recovery. Working with an agency that has experienced debt collection lawyers on staff (like Monetaria!) is a great way to reassure yourself that everything will be legally compliant and above board. Be sure to also confirm that the debt collection agency you hire is properly licensed as a debt collection agency. 

Step 2: Consider the agency’s fee structure

When hiring a debt collection agency, it’s important to consider their fee structure and whether that works for you. Many agencies use a percentage-based fee structure, which means that the amount you’ll pay the agency is based on the amount of money they recover from your delinquent customers. It’s important to ask questions about the fee structure and make sure it’s something you can afford.

Step 3: Get references

Before making your final decision, it’s important to get references from other businesses that have used the agency. Ask for references from businesses that are in a similar industry and have similar needs to yours. This will help you make sure the agency is reputable and will be able to get results.

Step 4: Ask questions

It’s important to ask the agency a lot of questions before hiring them. Ask about the strategies they use to collect a debt, how long they’ve been in business, and their success rate. It’s also important to ask about their customer service policies and any complaints filed against them.

Step 5: Read the contract carefully

Before signing a contract with a debt collection agency, it’s important to read it carefully and make sure you understand all the terms and conditions. Make sure you’re comfortable with the payment structure, the timeline, and any other stipulations in the contract.

Following these steps will help ensure you hire the right debt collection agency for your business needs.

 

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on bookkeeping, to ensure your business gets paid.

If you have unpaid debts that need to be recovered, commercial debt collection may be a good option for your business. A commercial debt collection agency can help you with the process of recovering past-due accounts and provide guidance on best practices for managing accounts receivable. 

Led by a team of experienced debt collection attorneys, Monetaria has helped hundreds of businesses recover and collect their outstanding debts and payments. Schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team to see how we can help you recover your money today!

 

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B2B Collections Collection Tips

Commercial Debt Collection For Beginners

The debt recovery lawyers at Monetaria explains Commercial Debt Collection for Beginners.

 

Business owners are often far too busy running their businesses to actively chase vendors and customers to pay their invoices, but if you’re not getting paid the money you’re owed, the business will quickly find itself without the cash flow needed to continue, much less grow and scale up. 

Knowing how to collect what you’re owed is crucial to ensure the financial stability and success of your business. Here is a guide to commercial debt collections for beginners:

What is Commercial Debt?

Commercial debt is a business-to-business transaction debt collection transaction:

Your business provided products or services to another business for it to be able to provide its own services and now needs to collect payment for it. Commercial debt is a common way for businesses to access capital and product, but it must be managed carefully in order to ensure that the company remains solvent and can repay what it owes in a timely manner.

How To Collect Commercial Debt?

In an ideal world, everyone would promptly pay their creditors quickly and easily, but we don’t live in a perfect world.

If a business is withholding payment, the creditor has several options: they can reach out and offer a payment plan, negotiate the amount owed, or pursue more aggressive methods, such as hiring a third-party collection agency with experienced commercial debt collectors or onboarding a debt collection attorney to collect what they’re owed through the courts. In some cases (like Monetaria), a number of collection agencies have experienced commercial debt collection attorneys on staff, to easily pursue legal remedies if it becomes necessary.

Why Hire a Debt Collection Agency?

There are many reasons to hire a third-party debt collection agency to help you recover your business-to-business debt. They include (but are not limited to):

Experience and Expertise: A debt collection agency has the expertise and resources to effectively collect outstanding debts that may be difficult for you to recover on your own.

Save You Time and Energy: Collection efforts can be time-consuming and require a lot of effort. Hiring a debt collection agency can free up your time and resources to focus on doing what you do best while letting them handle the intricacies of debt collection.

Tactful and Professional Approach: Collection efforts can be delicate and a debt collection agency can handle the process professionally and tactfully to avoid damaging your customer relations.

Ensure legal compliance: A debt collection agency is familiar with the laws and regulations surrounding debt collection and can help ensure your efforts are compliant with the law.

Increase your chances of collecting the debt: A debt collection agency has experience and expertise in negotiating with debtors and has a higher success rate in collecting outstanding debts compared to businesses trying to collect on their own, without the resources and knowledge of an experienced firm.

Selling Debt To A Collection Agency

Another way of handling a debt owed to you is selling and offloading it to a collection agency.

This means you are transferring ownership of the debt from the original creditor to the collection agency, who will then attempt to collect the debt from the borrower and keep what they can collect.

This is usually done when the original creditor has been unable to collect the debt and just wants to get an even smaller sum so they can move on. The sale of the debt is typically done at a discount, with the collection agency paying a lower amount for the debt than what is owed, reflective of their chances of recovering the full sum.

 

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on bookkeeping, to ensure your business gets paid.

If you have unpaid debts that need to be recovered, commercial debt collection may be a good option for your business. A commercial debt collection agency can help you with the process of recovering past-due accounts and provide guidance on best practices for managing accounts receivable. 

Led by a team of experienced debt collection attorneys, Monetaria has helped hundreds of businesses recover and collect their outstanding debts and payments. Schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team to see how we can help you recover your money today!

 

Categories
Collection Tips

How Does Merchant Cash Advance Collections Work?

Monetaria Group debt collections lawyers discuss what is merchant cash advance collections and how it works.

 

Many small businesses often turn to merchant cash advances (MCAs) when they need extra cash to supplement their cash flow, invest more capital in their business, or whenever they are in a pinch. The process of obtaining an advance is often quick, sometimes taking only one or two days, which can be attractive to a struggling business. However, MCAs can be expensive, which can make it easy for merchants to fall into a cycle of debt or miss payments. So,

what is merchant cash advance collections and how does it work?

When a merchant cash advance business needs assistance collecting payments on outstanding balances, they often turn to a third-party collection agency- like Monetaria- to help them with their debt recovery. These agencies typically have extensive experience in recovering outstanding receivables and use a variety of tactics to get deliver for our clients. This may include negotiations, developing payment plans, and even legal action. They handle the case, utilizing their expertise and knowledge, which allows their clients to focus on growing their businesses instead of worrying about how to get paid. 

A third-party collections agency might also attempt to seize a merchant’s assets, and levy their business bank accounts. On behalf of the funder, they may work to freeze their personal and business banking accounts, contact a business’s vendors or brokers and merchant processors to convince them to pay the collection agency directly since the business has defaulted on their loans, and if the merchant is using a payroll company, the MCA funder may also attempt to interfere in that arrangement.  

It is incumbent on a business to understand what they are agreeing to when applying for a merchant cash advance and have a payment plan in place. Because they may be a riskier financing proposition, many MCA companies protect their capital by including personal guarantees and liens on receivables in the contract, in case they need to put the account into collections to recover funds.

Commercial collection services are regulated by a number of federal and state laws. These laws outline the rights and responsibilities of both the creditor (the business trying to collect the debt) and the debtor (the business that owes the debt).

At the federal level, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) sets out rules for how consumer debt collectors can interact with debtors. While the FDCPA applies to personal, family, and household debts, and not to debts incurred by businesses,  many states have their own debt collection laws that apply to commercial debts, and these laws may provide additional protections for debtors. In addition to these laws, there are also industry-specific regulations that may apply to commercial debt recovery and collection. For example, the healthcare industry is subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which has provisions related to the collection of medical debts.

Commercial debt collection agencies can employ certain collection methods that are banned under consumer collection regulations for non-commercial entities.  These agencies need to be licensed and bonded before performing collections in most states, so when looking at hiring a third-party collection agency, it’s critical to ensure they are qualified and credentialed. 

Monetaria Group is led by a team of debt collection attorneys, which lets clients know all their debts and cases are being handled legally and competently, with no chance of trouble down the road. Monetaria is the number one solution for businesses looking to recover debts in the merchant cash advance and commercial debt space. With our innovative approach, experienced team, and commitment to customer service, we have established ourselves as the go-to choice for businesses looking to get the money they are owed. If you are a business owner struggling to recover money, don’t hesitate to reach out to Monetaria for assistance: we have the expertise and resources to deliver the results you need.

 

We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on bookkeeping, to ensure your business gets paid.

If you have unpaid debts that need to be recovered, commercial debt collection may be a good option for your business. A commercial debt collection agency can help you with the process of recovering past-due accounts and provide guidance on best practices for managing accounts receivable. 

Led by a team of experienced debt collection attorneys, Monetaria has helped hundreds of businesses recover and collect their outstanding debts and payments. Schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team to see how we can help you recover your money today!

 

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B2B Collections Collection Tips Loan Advice

The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly: Who Should You Extend Credit To?

Extending Credit

The decisions you make at the end of the day will affect your monthly bottom line. That much is undeniable. So who you give credit to, and how much, plays a vital role in your collection strategy both today and tomorrow.

There are many reasons why over 70% of American small businesses have outstanding debt. Decision-making is definitely one of them. At Monetaria, we work with New York businesses every day. We see over and over again smart individuals choosing clients or loan tactics that go against their best interests. It’s time to change that.

In the article below, we’ll guide you through some quick and dirty collection tips that just about any small business can implement. Save time, save money, and learn how to spot clients that are way out of your comfort zone!

When you’re extending credit, ask yourself the ultimate question: How much risk can your business handle?

The answer to this question depends on a lot of different things, but your profit margin is the most important. High profit margins allow for more risk. If you’ve already taken on a lot of debt and your margins are low, stay away from riskier clients.

Got high margins?

More risk potential.

Got low margins?

Less risk potential.

Investment and investigation are like peanut butter and jelly — an irresistible combination no business can do without.

But how do you know which clients are riskier than others? Well, whenever you extend credit to a business or client, you must investigate their ability to make payments. As a general rule, we recommend that you match your investigation to the level of investment.

 

The Bigger the Loan, the Bigger Your (Time) Investment

As you offer more credit, you must venture deeper into the business’ financial history. But what should you investigate? Ask and you shall receive.

First, the essentials. We’re sure you already know this stuff, but we’ll offer it just in case you need a refresher. For literally any B2B commercial loan investigation, you should look into the following level one information:

Level One

  • Business name
  • Owner and Officer names
  • Address of business
  • Duration at that address
  • Phone number(s) of business

As risk climbs, so too should your research efforts. Here are the level two risk investigation categories:

Level Two

  • Credit references
  • Phone number and address of banks where business accounts are kept
  • Applicant’s accountant

Don’t Forget to Choose the Proper Tools

When conducting in-depth business investigations, it’s also important to leverage the latest research tools. In this case, we’re talking about background checks. There are dozens of suppliers out there, but the best companies to use for client background and credit checks are:

You want to choose one of the above companies because they’ll have the most up-to-date and accurate information. Quick note – the information you get should only be used pursuant to local and federal laws. Make sure you are adhering to local and federal laws about using third party companies to do background checks. 

If the business does a significant amount of credit card sales, it’s also worth asking for 2-3 months of merchant statements. You won’t be using them for anything at first, other than getting a baseline for their credit card sales. 

Later, if their payments start coming in late, you can ask for a recent merchant statement and compare the two. This is an easy way to verify that, yes, their sales are down, or they have run into a little trouble and may need more time to pay.

Summing Up

  • The higher your margins, the more risks you can take.
  • Deepen B2B investigations based on your investment.
  • Leverage credit tools such as Experian to reduce risk.
  • Ask for merchant statements to get a baseline on their sales. 

When the Good Gets Ugly, You’re Not Alone

Despite best efforts and sound decision making, every business will acquire a client that, for one reason or another, refuses to pay their debt. When that happens, stay calm and keep it professional. 


Write them a few honest and direct collection letters. If that doesn’t work, give Monetaria a call. We have over a decade of B2B and Merchant Cash Advance debt recovery experience. Above all, remember that you’re not alone — we’re here to help.

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B2B Collections Collection Tips

How to Write a Collection Letter: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Running a successful business is about keeping your accounts receivable above water. When you see those relationships start to sink, the effects on your cash flow could be devastating.

So you’ll need to implement the right strategies to make sure your customers pay on time. When you do, you’ll ensure that your cash flow stays in the green and your stress levels stay low.

When customers don’t pay, you must shift your collection efforts into a new gear to recover any outstanding amounts. Collection letters are an invaluable tool you can use to get payment from customers while still preserving your relationship with them.

But where do you learn how to write a collection letter? What information should you include? When should you send it? 

At Monetaria, we live and breathe collections. Below, we’ll answer your collection letter concerns in detail. As a bonus, we’ll give you a collection letter template you can use in your efforts.  

What Is a Collection Letter?

Before we get into the details, let’s recap what a collection letter actually is. Simply put, a collection letter is a written notification that you send to a customer to inform them about their due payments.  

Typically, a collection letter may include payment reminders, inquiries, warnings, or notifications of possible legal action to be taken against a customer if they fail to pay overdue amounts promptly. Ultimately, if done right, collection letters help you to get paid while leaving the relationships with your customers intact.

What Makes a Collection Letter Effective?

Your relationship with your customer begins with effective communication. Staying honest is key. Communication typically starts by collecting the customer’s information and also providing them with a contract or conditions of sale that outlines your payment terms.

However, it may happen sometimes that customers don’t pay. And here, collection letters are another vital part of communication and a key tool that you can use to recover outstanding accounts. These letters are so so effective because they:

  • notify customers of outstanding accounts
  • demand payment from customers
  • indicate the steps required to get back on track
  • serve as notifications of the steps you’ll take if they fail to make payment

Heads up: to be effective as a tool in your collection efforts, there’s some information you need to include and mistakes to avoid.

 

What Information Should You Include in a Collection Letter?

Now that we’ve seen what collection letters are and why they’re effective, let’s look at the key information any effective collection letter should contain:

  • Company details. You must include your contact details on the collection letter including your address, telephone number, email address, and website if you have one. This is simply to make it easier for the customer to contact you.
  • Amount owing. You’ll have to include the exact amount owing. Ideally, you should include it in two places in the letter and it should be clearly visible.
  •  Due date. It’s important to always include the date when the balance was due to be paid.
  •  Invoice or account number. By including the account number, you’ll ensure that your customer knows exactly what account you’re referring to, so you can eliminate disputes later on. Including the account number also helps you keep track of the collection letters you’ve sent and follow up on payment.  If you have a written contract with your client, also include reference to the contract and the date it was executed. 
  • Call to action. This is one of the most important parts of the collection letter and aims to appeal to your customer to pay the outstanding amount. Here, it’s a good idea to include different methods of payment so that your customer can choose the most convenient one, which, in turn, increases the possibility that they’ll pay.
  • Thank you. Although it may sound strange to thank the customer, it goes a long way not only to increase the possibility that the customer will pay, but also shows professionalism and that you’re willing to maintain the relationship with the customer.

The Four Types of Collection Letters

The First Collection Letter

You’ll typically only send the first collection letter after you’ve tried to contact the customer by phone or email, and you couldn’t get a hold of them. In some instances, you’ll also send the first collection letter if you’ve gotten hold of the customer, but they failed to make a payment arrangement in respect of the overdue amount.

Keep in mind, though, that you should send the first collection letter no later than 14 days after the due date.

The second Collection Letter

Before you send the second collection letter, you should try to contact the customer again to find out whether they got the first collection letter and if they want to make a payment arrangement. If you can’t reach the customer or you do, but they fail to make an arrangement, it’s time to send the second collection letter.

Although the first and second collection letters convey much the same message, the main difference between the two is that you’ll make mention of the previous collection letter in the second letter.

The third Collection Letter

Once you’ve sent the second collection letter, you’ll once again try to contact the customer by phone. If you can’t get hold of them and they’ve made no attempt to contact you after the initial two letters, you should send the third collection letter.

 Like the second collection letter, you’ll refer to the first two letters and the fact that all attempts to recover the outstanding balance from the customer have been unsuccessful. Here, it’s also advisable to send the letter by certified mail as this requires that someone sign for the letter, which gives you proof that it was received.

The fourth Collection Letter

By the time you get to the fourth collection letter, it should be clear that the customer is either unwilling or unable to pay the outstanding amount. As a result, you’ll also use the most assertive language in this letter while still remaining professional.

Like the third collection letter, you’ll state that previous letters have been sent and all attempts to collect the outstanding amount have been unsuccessful. Likewise, you’ll also send this letter by certified mail to ensure that you get proof that it was delivered and received.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Remember, the ultimate goal with the series of collection letters is to recover any outstanding amounts from a customer while maintaining a good relationship. Although you now have some guidelines as to what information to include and when you should send the letters, there are some things you shouldn’t do.

Considering the above, it’s vital that you don’t:

  • Use harsh words in the letter and rather keep it professional.
  • Harass customers for payment. Although, in some cases, customers won’t pay, it’s always best to assume that they will.
  • Send text messages to customers. It’s always better to use collection letters that are formal and professional, and which provide you with proof that they were delivered and received.
  • Communicate with customers through social media. As stated above, you want a record of the correspondence that you’ve sent to the customer and the proof that they’ve received it. With social media, this is unfortunately not very easy to keep a clean record.

Download collection letter templates

With our free template, you’ll be able to send one or more collection letters to the customer to get your cash flow back on track.

monetaria collection letters

The Bottom Line

When you want to optimize the cash flow in your business, you must implement the right strategies to ensure that your invoices and outstanding balances get paid on time, every time. 

Hopefully, this post helped illustrate what information you should include in a collection letter and when it should be sent.

To find out more about collections, our services, or to download our collection letter template, visit our website or get in touch with us for more details. Monetaria Group is a New York-based B2B collections company that helps both small and medium businesses with their B2B collections.

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