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.

Top Non-Payment Excuses and How to Deal with Them

By Leah Funk | May 13, 2024

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We've all been there—you've put in the hard work, delivered top-notch services or products, and then, crickets. The payment you were eagerly awaiting seems to be playing hide-and-seek. What's worse? The excuses start rolling in.

But fear not! In this blog post, we will talk about top non-payment excuses and equip you with strategies to tackle them head-on.

Top Non-Payment Excuses and How to Deal with Them

Excuse #1: "I never received the invoice."

Ah, the classic "lost in cyberspace" maneuver. It's a common excuse, and while it might be true sometimes, let's face it – we live in an age of technology where emails rarely go missing.

How to deal with it? Be proactive! Set up an automated reminder system or request confirmation upon sending the invoice. This ensures they received it and puts the responsibility back on them to stay on top of their emails.

Excuse #2: "I'm waiting for approval from higher-ups."

It's tricky, but keep it from catching you off guard. When faced with this excuse, gently inquire about the expected timeline for approval.

Better yet, request the decision-maker's contact information so they can follow up directly. This demonstrates your commitment and adds a personal touch to the professional exchange.

Excuse #3: "The check is in the mail."

This is an age-old excuse that, in the era of digital transactions, can be met with a raised eyebrow. In today's fast-paced world, there are more efficient methods than waiting for a physical check.

Politely suggest electronic payment options to speed up the process, which saves them a stamp!

Excuse #4: "I'm facing financial difficulties right now."

This one pulls on the heartstrings, but navigating with caution is essential. Express empathy and inquire if there's a possibility to work out a payment plan.

Understanding their situation, while finding a mutually-beneficial solution can often lead to a positive resolution. It's a delicate dance between empathy and professionalism.

Excuse #5: "I thought your terms were net-60, not net-30."

Miscommunication can be a stumbling block, but it's crucial to address it head-on. Politely point out the agreed-upon terms in your contract or previous communications.

Clarify any confusion and, moving forward, ensure all terms are explicitly stated to avoid future misunderstandings.

Excuse #6: "I'm not satisfied with the quality of the work."

This one stings, especially if you've poured your heart and soul into your deliverables. In the face of this excuse, request specific feedback and be open to making necessary revisions.

This shows your commitment to customer satisfaction and positions you as a professional who values constructive criticism.

Excuse #7: "I'm waiting for payment from my clients first."

While understandable, your business shouldn't suffer because of its financial juggling act.

Suggest partial payments or a staggered schedule to accommodate their situation while ensuring you receive compensation for your hard work.

Excuse #8: "I didn't realize the payment was due."

Sometimes, it's a genuine oversight. However, it's crucial to establish clear communication and set reminders.

Politely remind them of the agreed-upon terms and discuss ways to streamline the payment process, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

Conclusion

Navigating the tricky terrain of late payments and excuses can be challenging when running a business. However, staying proactive, maintaining open communication, and being flexible when necessary can turn these potential pitfalls into valuable learning experiences.

Remember, you're not alone in facing non-payment excuses – it's a shared experience among business owners.

So, stand tall, handle those excuses with finesse, and keep thriving in your business endeavors. Here's to a future filled with timely payments and prosperous collaborations!

Leah Funk

As the National Account Sales Manager at Adams, Evens, & Ross, I have over 28 years of experience, and specialize in providing credit and collections solutions tailored to the unique needs of staffing and recruiting firms. Also, I'm the Executive Director of the United States Staffing Association (USSA), where I lead efforts to support, educate, and advocate for professionals in the staffing and recruiting industry across the country. In this role, I work closely with industry leaders to develop initiatives that support and give back to the staffing and recruiting community.

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