Did you know?

SU News Businesses that sell goods and services on credit must handle accounts receivable. Inevitably, those businesses granting credit must decide what to do with past–due accounts. While third–party debt collectors provide valuable services by collecting delinquent accounts, thus lowering costs that would otherwise be passed on to customers, professional debt collection businesses are often misunderstood. Myth: Statute of limitation erases debt. Fact: A state's statute of limitations doesn't make debt disappear. It just restricts how long a creditor can sue a debtor in court over a debt. Even then, the debtor must typically appear in court to assert the defense that the statute of limitations has expired. Myth: Tough, threatening collectors are the most effective. Fact: The most effective collectors are well trained, sophisticated professionals who (1) understand what motivates a variety of people, (2) can determine quickly what will motivate a particular person and (3) are able to communicate well with others. The best collectors work with debtors get their accounts paid. Myth: Collectors force people into bankruptcy. Fact: In reality, it would not make sense for a collector to encourage a debtor to file for bankruptcy. When people file for bankruptcy, their financial obligations to their creditors are usually wiped clean and the credit grantor and collector receive very little or nothing. Collectors understand that people in financial trouble often need guidance in settling their accounts without expensive litigation, and often need the flexibility of alternative payment arrangements to work out their financial trouble. A collector's business is to collect, but in practice, collecting often includes counseling. Myth: Debtor conflict is the main interest of all collectors. Fact: Media coverage of the collection industry often pits collectors against debtors. In reality, collectors are usually the first people to engage debtors in a problem–solving dialogue about their unpaid bills. Collectors receive many letters of thanks from companies they have helped. Furthermore, the efforts of collectors keep the prices of goods and services from rising. Remember, there is no such thing as an unpaid bill. Through higher prices, customers who do pay their bills end up paying for those who don't. Myth: Debt collectors are a special breed of people. Fact: Collectors come from all backgrounds with different experiences. Collectors often develop new traits and skills: quick–thinking, goal–oriented, problem–solving and effective communication. Tact, persistence and an understanding of people's motivations are traits of a good collector.

About Us

Sterling United - Worldwide Collections                                                (800) 350-9749

We are your National and International Recovery Experts

Sterling United does not charge "up front" costs. Sterling United is a collection agency with international "reach". Many local agencies are unable to pursue a debtor across state lines and country borders. We call them anywhere! At Sterling United we work ALL your accounts vigorously. Difficult and old accounts are given equal attention and priority. We love a challenge! We accept and work secondary or older accounts.

Typically, debts are collected one of three ways: (1) through personal contact, (2) by phone calls, (3) with the use of an attorney. Many collection agencies use only letters, effectively collecting very little depending on the age and type of account. Other agencies send letters and make a few calls or, exercise the legal option. All of these methods are profitable for collection agencies, but fall short of providing the full service necessary to maximize recovery for your accounts. Sterling United uses every option available to collect your accounts ethically and legally. Only when you get paid do we earn a fee! Sterling United's collection procedures are divided into two stages.

Stage 1:
The debtor receives a notice demanding payment: (1) First Notice, (2) Phone call from collector, and (3) If mail is returned or the phone number you supply is no longer good, our skip tracing department locates the debtor. Phone and mail demands are made. Final demand is made and the debtor is given the opportunity to either make payment(s) or to have their account referred to our Legal Department for further action.

Stage 2:
If the debtor refuses to pay and it is determined they have sufficient assets to warrant suit, we request your permission to sue. The debtor is contacted by our Legal Department requesting payment and detailing the legal options available for collecting the debt.

The status of any debtor can be determined by contacting Sterling United through your sales representative. Sterling United has no set-up or initiation fees, and is not prepaid. Sterling United only earns a fee when it collects money for its clients.

This general overview of Sterling United should provide enough information to merit further consideration. We look forward to answering any questions you may have by phone, e-mail or US mail.