The most common excuses for non-payment

Defaulters can often be divided into two categories: those who do not want to pay and those who cannot pay. Defaulters who do not want to pay often cause serious problems. In addition, they regularly use excuses. Sometimes predictable, sometimes just annoying and it always takes extra time. We have listed the most common excuses and complemented them with rebuttals that can help you get the customer to pay anyway.

1. The invoice has not been received

This is by far one of the most common excuses. Of course, the first thing you do is check the address. If the address is correct and there has been no response to reminders, you know the customer is trying to stall for time. Send a copy of the invoice by e-mail and make a concrete agreement for prompt payment.

2. There is a complaint, or the invoice is incorrect

Find out whether the customer has responded before and whether the complaint has been resolved. If the complaint is justified, there will have to be a resolution first. If the complaint is resolved, a concrete agreement on payment can also be made right away.

3. I am not in charge of payments

Ask who is responsible, and make sure you have their contact details. If agreements are not met, you can contact them yourself.

4. The invoice has not yet been approved by the budget holder

And apparently, this person is always hard to reach or speak to. And calling back does not happen at all. Again, provide this person's contact details and ensure concrete and prompt follow-up yourself.

5. That invoice has long been paid, right?

At least make sure you have your own administration in good order. If your customer plays innocent, you can always ask for proof of payment of the transfer. This could be a copy of the statement, for instance. If this is not forthcoming, you can continue the claim procedure.

6. We apply our own payment conditions

6. We apply our own payment conditions
Make sure you know exactly what conditions are applied and when the payment will be made. Also, check what payment arrangements have been agreed in the cooperation agreement. Have delivery and payment terms been signed, and possibly discuss the payment terms for subsequent delivery.

7. The invoice has been settled

This means that the customer has initiated payment. A date is then also known when the payment will actually be transferred. Make sure you know exactly which day you can expect the money in your own account.

With many of the aforementioned excuses, it is advisable to closely monitor progress after the customer's responsibility. After a telephone reminder and a reminder, it is advisable not to wait too long with a notice of default in which you hand the claim over to an external party.

More certainty with (export) credit insurance

Defaulters who cannot pay because of financial problems are obviously very annoying. However, it is difficult to take action on this, because in case of bankruptcy, the chances of receiving your money are very slim. You would be better off making a payment arrangement that ensures there is still income in the longer term. To avoid these problems, credit insurance is an alternative, because then you are assured of your money even in case of bankruptcy.