Collecting Business Debt

[EvianBaby]

We have a customer who has two invoices outstanding from Jan and Feb, both with 30 day terms. Despite various phone calls to them and promises that they would send a cheque, I still haven't received anything. I told them yesertday that if the account was not settled this week I would have no choice but to take it further with legal action.

The problem is, I don't actually know what the next step is.

As they are based in the same town I was going to just show up at their office and refuse to leave until I got a cheque but I doubt this would be acceptable.

Can anyone advise on how to proceed with recovering the debt?

[chrissa1]

You don't say how large the debt is. There is the Small Claims route via the Courts. You can do this yourself and it's very simple.

[EvianBaby]

It's just over £800. Not a huge amount I know but every penny counts at the moment.

[EvianBaby]

Do we have to do something first, like issue certain letters or do we just head straight to court?

[chrissa1]

http://www.direct.gov...aimformoney/index.htm

You've given them enough time to pay this debt, including the threat of legal action. Fill out the forms from the link and lodge them with the court, following the procedure. Good luck.

[EvianBaby]

Thanks Chrissa, really helpful.

[isitjustme]

"As they are based in the same town I was going to just show up at their office and refuse to leave until I got a cheque but I doubt this would be acceptable. "
I found that this worked with a very large company (C**P) , I just sat in the office waiting room and refused to go, I got my money, in cash!

[twix123]

Another opton would be to inform them that you are putting the matter into the hands of a Debt Collection company, and if necessary do so. There must be one in your area whom you could contact for details of procedures and costs.