Collections

Working with OCAs

Feb-15-2010

This article is a mini-seminar on commercial collections. It's packed with valuable insight into how commercial collection firms operate, as well as practical information about what you need to know when you're selecting one. It also contains links to several articles with important information on lawsuits and the legal process as they relate to collections.

10 Questions to Ask Before Deciding to Sue a Collection Account

Dec-14-2009

You’ve made your decision to sue. But wait! You’ll want to answer these 10 questions before suing the debtor.

Uncollected Dollars are Threatening Your Survival

Aug-26-2009

Write-offs have always been part of the cost of doing business. Keep them to a minimum and it’s all good. Right? Not anymore. Not in today’s business climate. So what can you do?

A Good Collector Needs a Balanced Attitude

Aug-23-2009

Using several illustrations from actual dealings with debtors, a rookie reminds us of an important key to successful collections.

Change in Irish Law Makes Collections More Difficult

Jul-29-2009

A June 2009 Irish High Court ruling strips creditors of a powerful legal remedy to enforce court ordered installment payments of past due accounts.

Declining Economy Fuels Requests for Long Term Payment Plans

Jun-29-2009

Given today’s economy, it was only a matter of time. More debtors need more time to pay on past due accounts. What do credit professionals need to consider before granting extended payment plans?

Six Tips for Making Collection Calls that Get Results

Nov-14-2008

Collection calls not one of your favorite things? You’re not alone. Build confidence and effectiveness by finding out how the pros approach this tough task.

6 Secrets for Writing Effective Collection Letters

Oct-23-2008

Getting the results you want from your collection letters? If not, maybe it’s time for a do over. Here’s some tips and samples to help you get the most from this traditional collection tool.

Collecting Foreign Arbitration Awards

Sep-22-2008

Reality Check is a new feature we’ll be including now and then. It highlights interesting real world scenarios, experiences and insights from professionals working in the receivables management industry. In this issue, an old adage helps create a new precedent for sellers worldwide.

Certified Translations: Preparing Your Documents for Foreign Courts

Aug-27-2008

There’s more to it than simply writing words in a different language. If you want the courts and other organizations to accept your documents, read on.

What Do You Mean, the Creditor Won't Sue?!

Jun-25-2008

Commercial collections attorney, Martin Goldman, says he cringes when he gets a notice to close a file because the creditor refuses to sue. Find out why.

Your Account is Past Due Please Don't Send a Check

Apr-26-2008

The check is in the mail” is a common response given by debtors when contacted about a past due payment. While this excuse is a familiar one in North America, it may not ring true with credit managers in Europe.

Evaluating Your Collection Agency’s Performance

Jan-29-2008

Our October 2007 issue featured an article on selecting a collection agency. This month we offer valuable tips and an OCA Quality Score Card to help you determine how well the outside collection agency you selected is meeting your needs.

Skip Tracing Basics

Dec-19-2007

Looking for a debtor who seems to have vanished? That's a job that can rival any episode of TV's "Without a Trace". Here's what skip tracing can and can't do.

Using an OCA to Execute Debtor Judgments

Nov-28-2007

When it comes to executing and enforcing judgments in out-of-state venues or other countries, outside collection agenciess have access, experience and clout. They are generally more cost-effective too.

Selecting the Right Collection Agency

Oct-24-2007

Big or small, every business that sells on credit will eventually have a collection issue. When it’s time to call in outside help, there are nine things you need to consider to make sure you’re choose the right collection partner.

Helping Your Collection Agency Help You

Jul-24-2007

Before and after you hand that past due account off to an agency, ABC-Amega third party collection experts tell you how to stack the deck in favor of getting the money you’re owed.

Court Costs and Suit Fees

Mar-22-2006

Attorney fees are a consideration when determining the cost effectiveness of filing suit against a debtor. This overview will let you know what to expect in terms of the process and kinds of fees generally assessed by collection attorneys in the U.S.

The ABCs of Telephone Collections

Feb-21-2006

From Anticipating needs before you dial to Zero-ing in on every call, this alphabetical quick list is a good reminder for anyone involved in handling collections over the phone.

Why a Collection Agency rather than an Attorney

Dec-20-2004

Why should a firm use a commercial collection agency to handle legal collections rather that going directly to an attorney?

Probability of Collecting on Past Due Accounts

Mar-18-2004

What is the probability of collecting on an account receivable once it goes past due?

Contingency Fees

Feb-18-2004

Find out why contingent pricing presents the best pricing option when placing claims with an outside agency.

International Claims Demystified

Sep-18-2003

International business has its challenges. For many, the prospect of international collections is intimidating. It doesn't have to be, if you understand some basics.

Checks by Fax

Aug-21-2003

The more options for payment you can give your customers, the more likely you are to collect. It doesn't take much to get set up to receive checks by fax, e-mail or phone. Here are some basics to get you started.

New Rules Help Creditors Collect in UK

Jan-22-2003

New rules in the UK have been introduced to encourage debtors to pay on time by penalizing those who do not with high interest rates.