Cookies on the Attwoods website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the Attwoods website.

Open

10 tips for avoiding bad debts

10 tips for avoiding bad debts

Here are some tips…

Bad debtors can be very dangerous for new and expanding businesses, having a damaging impact on cash flow.

Here are 10 tips for avoiding bad debts:

  1. Obtain a credit reference on the organisation that you intend to trade with
  2. Avoid doing business with companies whose credit rating is poor
  3. Ensure that the other company knows your payment terms at the outset
  4. Invoice at the earliest opportunity
  5. State the payment terms clearly on your invoice
  6. If payment is not received by the due date, send a reminder as soon as possible, and certainly no longer than one week after the due date. It is good practice to have a policy to chase the debt after a fixed number of days following the due date
  7. If there is still no response, chase up the debt by telephone. This will enable you to determine whether there are any queries on the invoice and, if not, to discuss a date for the settlement
  8. Write to confirm the agreed settlement date and send by fax or post
  9. State clearly that the matter will be referred (after the agreed extended period) to either:
    • A debt collection agency
    • A firm of solicitors, or
    • The county court small claims department
  10. If the debt is still due after this, keep your word and take action

If you would like help with cash flow and avoiding bad debts, contact Attwoods.

Call us
Bromsgrove01527 874170
Evesham01386 424388
Pershore01386 554870
Find us
Bromsgrove
Evesham
Pershore

Here to help

Please complete the form below and our expert team will be in touch.

  • Contact details

    • *
    • *

  • What services are you interested in?

    • *

  • Message

    • *

  • Which location would you like to contact?

  • Communication

    • *Indicates a required fields.†At least one form of contact is required.

      By submitting this form, you agree that Attwoods can process your information in order to respond to your enquiry. For more information visit our Privacy Policy.

Latest news

Discover the latest updates and financial insights to stay informed and inspired.

View all
Bromsgrove
Bromsgrove

Attwoods is proudly based in the historic market town of Bromsgrove, Worcestershire

  • 182 Worcester Road
  • Bromsgrove
  • Worcestershire
  • B61 7AZ
Call us01527 874170
Learn more about BromsgroveGet in touch
Evesham
Evesham

Attwoods is proudly based in the picturesque town of Evesham, Worcestershire; nestled in the heart of the Vale of Evesham

  • 90-92 High Street
  • Evesham
  • Worcestershire
  • WR11 4EU
Call us01386 424388
Learn more about EveshamGet in touch
Pershore
Pershore

Attwoods is proudly based in the Georgian market town of Pershore, Worcestershire.

  • Perrott House
  • 17 Bridge Street
  • Pershore
  • Worcestershire
  • WR10 1AJ
Call us01386 554870
Learn more about PershoreGet in touch
  • Xero Logo
  • Gold Partner Logo
  • Sage
  • QuickBooks Platinum

The practices of Attwoods are carried on by Attwoods Accountants Limited, Attwoods Business Services Limited, Attwoods (Bromsgrove) Limited. Regulated for a range of investment business activities by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.