Why should I use Adams, Evens, & Ross for staffing debt collection?

Adams, Evens, & Ross (AER) has over 33 years of experience collecting past-due debts exclusively for the staffing and recruiting industry. We have served more than 4,000 staffing and recruiting firms, placing over $1 billion in debt. Our industry specialization means we understand the unique challenges staffing firms face when clients don't pay. We also maintain the industry's most comprehensive credit alert — a database that tells you which companies are currently in debt before you place workers with them.

What is your fee structure for collecting staffing debt?

AER operates on a strict 'No Collection, No Charge' policy. You only pay a fee if we successfully collect the debt. If we do not collect, you owe us nothing. Our fee is a percentage of the amount collected. For specific fee details, you can review our fee agreement or book a free consultation.

Can AER reduce their collection fee?

Our fees are structured based on the age and complexity of the debt. In some circumstances fees may be discussed during your consultation. We encourage you to book a free 30-minute call with our team to discuss your specific situation.

Will collecting a staffing debt show up on my client's personal credit report?

AER specializes in commercial (business-to-business) debt collection for the staffing industry. Collection activity is typically reported against the business entity rather than the personal credit of an individual. For details specific to your situation, consult with our team during a free consultation.

Who can Adams, Evens, & Ross help with debt collection?

AER works exclusively with staffing agencies, recruiting firms, payroll funding companies, and staffing industry associations that are owed unpaid placement fees or staffing invoices by client companies. We are not a general collection agency — our expertise is entirely within the staffing and recruiting industry.

How will I be kept updated on my collection account?

AER provides regular updates on the status of your accounts. Once you place an account with us, you will receive communication on collection activity and any payments received. You can also reach out to our team directly with questions at any time.

Can I tell others that a client has not paid me?

There are legal guidelines around disclosing that a client owes you money. AER can advise you on how to handle this appropriately. Our credit alert service allows us to notify other staffing firms within our network that a particular company has an outstanding debt, which helps protect the broader industry.

What if I don't have a signed contract with the client who owes me money?

Not having a signed contract does not necessarily prevent collection. AER has experience recovering staffing debts in situations where formal contracts are missing. We evaluate each case individually and can advise you on your options during a free consultation.

What should I do if I receive a letter from the debtor's attorney?

If you receive a letter from the debtor's attorney after placing the account with AER, forward it to us immediately. Do not respond directly to the debtor's attorney. AER will handle all legal correspondence on your behalf through our nationwide network of attorneys.

What happens if the debtor mailed a check before I placed the account?

If a check was already in the mail when you placed the account with AER, notify us right away. You will need to deposit the check and inform AER of the payment. Depending on the timing and what was agreed, this may affect the account status. Our team will guide you through the next steps.

Can I close a collection account after it has been placed with AER?

Yes, you can request to close an account that has been placed with AER. However, depending on the work already completed, there may be considerations to discuss. Contact your AER representative to review the status of the account before making that decision.

What should I do if the debtor contacts me directly?

Once you have placed an account with AER, refer any direct contact from the debtor back to us. Do not negotiate or accept payment directly without first notifying AER. Direct communication from debtors after placement should be handled through our team to protect the integrity of the collection process.

I received a check from the debtor — what do I do?

If you receive a check directly from the debtor after placing the account with AER, deposit the check and immediately notify your AER representative with the amount and date received. AER will then calculate the appropriate fee based on the amount collected.

When do I get paid after AER receives a payment from the debtor?

Once AER receives and clears a payment from the debtor, your portion of the collected amount is remitted to you promptly. The exact timeline is outlined in the fee agreement. AER works to ensure you receive your payment as quickly as possible after funds are confirmed.

How do I get started with Adams, Evens, & Ross?

Getting started with AER is simple. You can book a free 30-minute consultation with Wilson Cole at https://www.staffingdebt.com/aer-consult/ or go directly to https://www.staffingdebt.com/aer-information/ to place an account. AER will walk you through the fee agreement and next steps from there.

How to Manage Small Claims for Unpaid Invoices

By Cassie Escarra | September 22, 2025

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How to Manage Small Claims for Unpaid Invoices

Chasing down unpaid invoices is nobody’s favorite part of the job. You do the work, you deliver the talent, and then… crickets. The invoice sits there unpaid, collecting dust and frustration. When the amount is just small enough that hiring a lawyer seems excessive, but big enough to hurt your bottom line, what’s a staffing firm to do?

Enter the small claims court—your DIY path to getting what you’re owed, without draining your resources or losing your cool.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to manage small claims like a pro, keep your business protected, and maybe even avoid ending up there in the first place.

Step 1: Know When Small Claims Court Is the Right Move

Small claims court is designed for exactly what it sounds like—smaller financial disputes. The rules vary by state, but most courts have a maximum claim limit ranging from $2,500 to $25,000.

Here’s when it’s a solid option:

The unpaid invoice isn’t worth the cost of hiring an attorney.
You’ve sent multiple reminders and received no response.
You've tried professional collection services and need to escalate.
You’re prepared to represent your company (or have a rep ready) in court.

Bonus Tip: Before going to court, a final notice letter can work wonders. Sometimes all it takes is one serious “we’re-ready-to-escalate” message to prompt action.

Step 2: Gather Your Evidence (A.K.A. Your Paper Armor)

Think of small claims court like a story—and your documentation is the plotline that wins the case. You’ll need to clearly show:

A signed contract or agreement with payment terms.
The invoice(s) sent and payment due dates.
Proof of service or placement provided.
Communication history (emails, texts, calls).

Basically, you want to show the judge: “Here’s what we did. Here’s what we’re owed. Here’s what they haven’t paid.”

Not sure if your documentation game is strong enough? Check out resources from US Staffing Association to stay sharp on industry best practices and compliance standards.

Step 3: File Your Claim

Now, it’s showtime! You’ll need to:

Head to your local small claims court website.
Fill out the required forms (these vary by state).
Pay a filing fee (usually between $30–$100).
Officially notify the client (a.k.a. serving papers).

Each state has a slightly different process, but most courts make it pretty user-friendly—you don’t need to be Elle Woods to navigate this part. Just follow the instructions carefully and double-check deadlines.

Step 4: Be Prepared to Represent Yourself

Most small claims courts don’t allow attorneys, so you’ll be telling your side of the story yourself or with a company representative.

What to bring:

Copies of all documentation
A clear timeline of events
A confident, professional attitude (even if you're nervous!)

Remember, it’s not about drama—it’s about facts. Judges want the story, the evidence, and a resolution. Keep it clear and simple.

Step 5: Collect or Explore Your Next Move

If the court rules in your favor (yay!), the client is now legally obligated to pay. But—real talk? Sometimes they still drag their feet. If that happens, you may need help enforcing the judgment.

That’s where experts like Adams, Evens, & Ross come in. With decades of staffing-industry experience, AER helps firms recover what’s owed—whether it’s post-judgment enforcement or earlier-stage collections.

Need support before or after you file? Book a consultation to speak with the AER team about your options.

Conclusion

Small claims court may sound intimidating, but it’s actually one of the most empowering tools small and midsize staffing firms can use. It shows you mean business, protects your revenue, and reminds clients that you won’t be taken lightly.

Just remember:
- Know your limits (literally—check the dollar limit in your state).
- Have airtight documentation.
- Keep your cool.
- Always explore all other options first—especially when firms like AER are here to help lighten the load.

Because at the end of the day? Getting paid isn’t a luxury—it’s your right.

Visit Adams, Evens, & Ross and let’s turn overdue invoices into over and done.

Cassie Escarra

Sales Manager at Back Door Hire Solutions

As a talented sales executive with a track record of exceeding targets and building strong client relationships, she is driven by a passion for excellence and innovative solutions. With a background in B2B sales, she has the ability to understand her clients’ needs to deliver exceptional results.

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