Creditors and Collection Agencies must work together

Agencies are working on shrinking margins due to lower liquidation potential caused by many factors including increased or unclear regulation. No creditor wants to pay more in cost, because they are most likely working on smaller margins too. So what is the answer? Creditors and Collection Agencies have to work together and demand an environment that allows for more effective and less expensive communications with debtors.

Agencies cannot continue to rely on sending printed letters through the US Mail Service and calling land-lines and expect to still be in business a decade from now. Younger generations of debtors require a different collections approach, and those generations are becoming a larger portion of everyone’s customer base. The FDCPA, as most of you know, is a law that regulates our industry. It was created in the 1970’s and is in dire need of updating and clarification due to changes in technology. Additionally, every state has different requirements that make national collections more difficult. Even the most diligent agencies have a hard time complying with all the legal landmines found in our ever changing environment.

Consumer (debtor) protection will not be negatively impacted, but rather improved because consumers will be contacted in methods that they prefer. I think most debtors would prefer to get an email or text message or be able to contact an automated/virtual system than receiving a call from a collector. Collectors will always be needed. Doesn’t it make sense for all parties involved to utilize the technology of today?

This is where help from Creditors, meaning hospitals, banks, retailers, utility companies, municipalities, commercial businesses, etc. is necessary. Legislators are more likely to listen to these types of companies, than collection agencies. We must work together to change the environment and make it easier to operate, without causing more harm to consumers. It is time to pay attention to the issues affecting the collection industry and get involved with your government representatives as all parties involved, creditors, consumers, and collections agencies will benefit.

How to Select a Collection Agency

Sooner or later within your company’s customer base, someone – whether a long time customer or a new client – is not going to pay a bill. Driven by the difficult economy, more businesses are turning to professional collection agencies to address increases in delinquencies. In 15+ years of dealing with delinquent accounts and receivables management, I’ve found that choosing the right collection agency (which is often not the lowest bidder) is an important decision that can improve your bottom-line. However to ensure your company’s reputation and finances are protected, due diligence when selecting an agency is more important than ever. Here are 5 things to consider when choosing and hiring a collection agency:

Reputation – You do not want to be associated with shady collections practices. While the agency may face consequences if they are not compliant, your name can easily be tied to a violation. There is no such thing as an agency that never receives a complaint. The real question is; do they have effective systems for working within all state and federal regulations and minimizing complaints?

Check to see if the agency is a member of any recognized trade associations such as ACA International or the IACC whose members are held to high ethical and professional standards. Also ask if the agency has any quality control certifications such as PPMS?

Recovery rate – Inquire on the agency’s recovery rate, not just fees charged. For example, if you turn over $5,000 worth of accounts at a 25% commission rate and the agency recovers $1,000, you will receive $750. If you turn over the same $5,000 at a 35% commission rate, but the agency recovers $1,500, you will receive $975.

Even though the agency’s fee is 10% higher in the second example, the net back to you would still be substantially more, due to the better performance of the agency. The agency fee rate by itself is meaningless. Net return is the key.

Industry experience – How many years has the agency been in business? Do they have experience working with your specific type of accounts or customers and the rules and regulations that may apply to your industry?

Technology & Data Security – Remember that your company (and customers’) information will be stored within the data systems of the agency you choose. You need to be certain their technology infrastructure is safe and secure. Inquire into security certifications showing they are compliant.

References – An obvious point that often gets overlooked is checking references, particularly from clients that are in your industry. Dig in and make some calls to their current or previous customers. Ask about the quality of their services and professionalism. Did they have any problems?

If you have experienced increased delinquencies and your core competency is not chasing after delinquent customers, then you most likely need a collection agency. Hiring a quality collection agency is not often easy. Search for a business partner, not just a collection agency. Your ultimate goal is not only to secure debt, but to maintain and protect your value in the marketplace.

PRC’s new “occasional” Blog!

Welcome to PRC’s new Blog!   Occasionally we will be updating our blog with industry news, PRC news or other important messages.   It will be occasional because we will only post blogs when we feel we have something important to share.   We are excited to have this forum to get out valuable information and be able to discuss it with all interested parties.  Your feedback is always welcome.  Additionally, you will also see that we are starting our e-newsletter in the near future.   Thanks again for your interest in PRC and we look forward to sharing information in the near future.