Tired of losing money to collection agencies charging really low fee? Choosing the cheapest collection agency could mean big compliance risks and lower collection rates. Learn the critical questions to ask before sacrificing data security and industry standards.
At CA-USA, we are keen to collaborate with businesses that align with our philosophy. Allow me to share a few insights over the next 2-3 minutes.
Before engaging with other collection agencies offering rock bottom contingency fees, it’s vital to verify their compliance and services. Many (read as Most) agencies do not meet the required standards mandated by the government, leaving you at grave risk.
Here are some critical questions to consider/ask agencies offering lower fee:
- GLBA Compliance:
The FTC requires collection agencies to comply with The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) from June 9, 2023, ensuring customer data protection similar to banks and other financial institutions. Data breaches can significantly impact both clients and the collection agency. At CA-USA, our dedicated compliance officer ensures our adherence to all industry security norms, including GLBA compliance, which is not universally adopted due to its high cost. Can other agencies confirm their GLBA compliance in writing? Engaging with a non-compliant agency could be very risky. - Fixed Fee Service Option:
Investigate whether the competing agency offers a fixed fee service, which is the best way for maintaining relationships with your clients. CA-USA’s fixed-fee accounts do not expire, allowing you to use them on an as-needed basis without worry. Many agencies avoid offering fixed fee services as they hardly make money from it, and often place an expiration date on accounts, leading to potential financial losses for unused accounts. - Collection Methodology and Google Rating:
Our name comes from: KIN– Family NUM– Numbers : Family before Numbers … People before Profits!
By adopting a firm yet amicable approach, we achieve higher collection rates from debtors. Our methodology makes them more eager to work with us to repay their debt. We do not use threatening tactics that may ruin your reputation.★★★★★ – Over 1500 Google reviews with averaging 4.85 out of 5. - Litigious-Defaulter Check:
CA-USA conducts a complimentary Litigious-Defaulter check alongside standard services like USPS address verification/skip tracing and bankruptcy checks. This means we identify debtors with a history of litigious actions against businesses similar to yours and advise on ceasing collection activities on such accounts to mitigate risks. - Free Credit Reporting:
We offer free credit bureau reporting during the collection phase if you opt for Credit Reporting, without any hidden fees. We do not impose any kind of setup fee when you come on board with us. - Industry Experience:
CA-USA possesses significant experience in debt recovery within your specific industry. - Licenses:
We hold our OWN collection licenses across all 50 states and Puerto Rico, ensuring nationwide coverage. If your debtor crosses state lines, you won’t have to worry. Most agencies do not have a nationwide license. Our team is equipped to handle collections in both English and Spanish. - Client Portal Security:
Does the lower-cost agency offer a secure client portal with multifactor authentication, such as one-time passwords? Can you upload accounts in bulk using excel sheet or are you required to enter each account individually? CA-USA’s client portal is secure, compliant with SSAE 18 SOC 1 Type 2 data security standards, and meets HIPAA, TCPA, and FDCPA compliance. Our online client portal offers convenient account management and performance monitoring.
If our contingency fee seems slightly higher than some other collection agencies, there’s a valid reason for it. Maintaining compliance and offering comprehensive services without compromise comes at a cost.
While we can’t promise specific recovery success (no one can), our top-rated collectors are compensated on a contingency-only basis, ensuring they are motivated to recover funds on your behalf.
As our commitment to quality service and compliance doesn’t allow us to cut corners.