Learn how to deal with these three common late payment excuses efficiently to get paid quicker.
If your client is constantly deflecting your requests for payment and you’re beginning to worry that your invoices are never going to get paid, it’s time to tackle the problem head-on.
Before you make another phone call to chase up a late payment, prepare yourself for the excuses your request may be met with and learn how to handle the situation effectively to get paid quicker.
“We’ve lost/didn’t receive the invoice.”
Confirm the customer’s contact details and resend the invoice immediately. If possible, send by email whilst you’re talking to them and ask them to confirm receipt whilst you’re still on the phone.
If you don’t already, start sending monthly statements to customers. This will mean that in the event of an invoice going astray, they will be able to see from the next statement that there is an outstanding payment, so no excuses!
“The relevant person isn’t available to talk.”
Not being able to get through to the correct person after calling multiple times can feel like you’re banging your head against a brick wall. The trick with this one is to be patient and persistent. Each time you call, ask the person who answers when the relevant person will be available and call back promptly at this time.
“The payment is being sent today/tomorrow/this Friday.”
Ask the person putting the payment through to confirm the date when the payment is to be made and request that they send you proof of payment after it has been submitted. If you don’t hear anything by midday on the day, call back to confirm that payment is being made today and remind them that you wish to receive proof of payment.
If you require help with credit management, arrears prevention or debt collection, get in touch with our team of experts here at Churchill Recovery by calling us on 0333 320 0748.