IF SOMEBODY OWES YOU MONEY...

If you are owed money and have not received any payment over a reasonable period of time, there are several steps you can take to collect, even before going to the expense of hiring a collection agency or lawyer. While making these moves, you can collect evidence in case it becomes necessary to take the matter to court.

CALL THE DEBTOR

This method, handled properly, can have surprisingly successful results. For best results, have another person of the line to witness the conversation. In case the debtor denies the call, you have a witness who can testify otherwise.

WRITE THE DEBTOR

Write a letter that confirms and reviews all the pertinent points of the telephone conversation. The goal is to make your letter clear enough to make it stick in court.

IF THE DEBTOR IS A BUSINESS

File a complaint with the BBB or the trade organization in which the debtor is a member. Make sure you stick to the facts in order to avoid being sued for libel.