The strongest recovery strategy is a billing process that produces fewer overdue accounts in the first place. None of the following requires new software or significant cost — only consistency.
1. Invoice immediately
An invoice sent the day work is completed is paid sooner than one sent at month-end. The clock on every payment term starts only when the invoice arrives.
2. State terms in plain language
“Payment due within 14 days of invoice date” leaves nothing to interpret. Vague terms invite delay.
3. Confirm receipt
A short message confirming an invoice has been received removes the most common excuse for non-payment — and tells you immediately if it went to the wrong place.
4. Make the first reminder early and friendly
A polite reminder a few days after the due date is normal business practice. Sending it early keeps the account from quietly ageing.
5. Escalate on a fixed schedule
Decide in advance when an account moves from reminder, to formal demand, to recovery — and apply it consistently. Predictability is what keeps receivables young.
When an account does pass the point where in-house effort is worthwhile, that is where we help. Talk to Merion about a recovery review.