Small business debt collection - how to get paid without the hassle

• Cash flow challenge: Chasing unpaid invoices takes up my time and energy, leaving me stressed while bills, wages, and suppliers still need paying.

• Perfect for: Small business owners and finance teams who want to get invoices paid quickly and reduce the hassle of chasing late payments.

Novuna helps small businesses take the stress out of debt collection, either through our award winning in-house service or by comparing the market to find the best fit for your needs.

We work with trusted providers, help you apply, and make sure you get the right deal to improve cash flow without damaging client relationships.

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Why small business debt collection is so challenging

Late payments are a common headache for SMEs. Smaller businesses often don’t have dedicated credit control teams, so the burden falls on owners or overstretched staff. This can lead to wasted time, uncomfortable conversations, and uncertainty over when or if the money will come in.

Practical steps to recover unpaid invoices

1. Start with clear communication: Send polite reminders as soon as an invoice is overdue. Many late payments are simply oversights, so a friendly nudge can often resolve the issue.

2. Put a structured process in place: Set up a timeline for follow-ups for example, a reminder after 7 days overdue, another after 14 days, then a firmer message after 21 days. Consistency shows you take payment seriously.
   

3. Keep records: Save copies of all communications, including emails and phone calls. If you ever need to escalate, this evidence will be important.

4. Offer flexible payment options: Sometimes clients want to pay but are struggling with cash flow. Agreeing a payment plan can help you recover the money without losing the client.

5. Know when to escalate: If repeated reminders don’t work, it may be time to involve a debt collection agency or legal support. This shows you are serious about being paid while still keeping the process professional.

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How Novuna Business Cash Flow can help

We support small businesses in tackling late payments and recovering unpaid invoices with minimal hassle. Whether through credit control, invoice finance, or debt recovery partners, our aim is to take the pressure off you and ensure your cash flow stays healthy.