Dealing with a $2,800 invoice that’s been overdue for three months. The client just vanished and stopped replying two weeks ago.
I never expected to face this situation, and I find the collections process pretty daunting.
Curious about what this looks like in real life.
Dealing with this can be really tough
Trying to collect can be a hassle. Depends on how much is at stake. Sometimes it’s just not worth the trouble.
Yeah, I had to do this once with a $1,200 invoice. Client kept making excuses for two months then went silent.
I sent one final notice saying I’d send it to collections in 10 days. Nothing. Found a local collection agency that worked on commission - they took 30% but I figured getting 70% was better than nothing.
Took about six weeks but they got the full amount. The agency handled everything and just sent me a check minus their cut.
Before you go that route though, try calling instead of emailing if you haven’t already. Sometimes people ignore emails but will actually talk on the phone. Also check if the business is still operating - I’ve seen cases where companies just shut down quietly.
Been through this dance three times over the years. First time I waited too long and ate the cost.
Now I do it different. After 60 days overdue, I send a certified letter with a 15 day notice before collections. That gets about half of them to pay up right away.
For the ones that don’t budge, I use a collection agency that only charges if they collect. Usually takes 2-4 months but you’ll get most of your money back.
Don’t wait any longer on that $2,800. The trail goes cold fast and your chances drop every month you sit on it.