Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Debt Recovery
Is my unpaid invoice actually worth pursuing, or should I write it off?
That's exactly what the Free Check tells you. A few quick questions about the debt, amount, age, paperwork, contact history, and you'll get an honest answer: pursue it, try DIY first, or an honest "this may not be cost-effective to pursue" if that's the real read.
How much does a debt collection agency charge?
It varies by agency, usually a percentage of what's recovered on a no-win, no-fee arrangement, or a flat fee for other work like issuing a formal demand. We don't set these fees ourselves, your match will set out the real numbers for your case before anything proceeds.
How long does debt recovery usually take?
It depends on the debtor and the debt, there's no honest way to promise a timeframe upfront. What we can promise is a fast, clear next step: the Free Check takes minutes, and if matching makes sense, your partner agency will typically be in touch the same day.
What's the difference between a letter of demand and taking legal action?
A letter of demand is a formal but informal request for payment, no court involved, and often enough on its own. Legal action (a statutory demand, or a claim through a court or tribunal) is a further, more serious step with real procedural requirements and, in the case of a statutory demand, real risk if it's done incorrectly.
Will hiring a debt collector damage my relationship with my customer?
It can, depending on how it's handled, which is part of why matching you with the right partner for your situation matters more than just picking any collector.
Do I need a lawyer, or can an agency handle it?
Most unpaid invoices don't need a lawyer. A partner agency can usually handle recovery directly, and escalate to legal action only if it genuinely comes to that.
Is there a no-win, no-fee option?
Many of our partner agencies offer no-win, no-fee arrangements, though it depends on the agency and your specific case. Your match takes this into account, so you'll know upfront.
What happens if the debtor still won't pay after a formal demand?
The next step depends on the debt: an eligible company debt of $4,000 or more may suit a statutory demand, a smaller or disputed debt usually suits your state's small claims tribunal, and in some cases the honest answer is that further action isn't worth the cost. A partner agency can also take on the next steps directly.
Can I do this myself first before paying anyone?
Yes. Our DIY recovery kits, a letter of demand template, a statutory demand guide, and a full recovery guide, are built for exactly that, a proper attempt before you bring in a partner agency.
Which agency is right for my industry or situation?
That depends on your industry, the size of the debt, and how the debtor has responded so far. Rather than a directory to browse yourself, we match each business individually based on the details from the Free Check.
Still Not Sure? Run the Free Check
Does Your Debt Qualify?
Answer a few quick questions, no cost, no obligation.