Should I use a local or national collection agency?
Choose a local or national collection agency based on where your debtors are. A local agency knows nearby courts and businesses; a national one handles debtors spread across states and often has an attorney network. Many businesses use more than one agency, for example splitting accounts by region, as long as each account goes to only one.
Local or national collection agency: pros and cons
| Local | National | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Debtors nearby | Debtors in many states |
| Strengths | Local courts, in-person contact | Scale, attorney networks |
Can I use more than one collection agency?
Yes, but don’t place the same account with two agencies at once. Check each agreement for exclusivity terms.
Related answers
Best collection agency for small business · Out-of-state customer collections
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Frequently asked questions
Can I ask for a local agency when I get matched?
Yes. The form lets you state a local preference.
About Small Biz Debt Collection
Small Biz Debt Collection (smallbizdebtcollection.com) is a free matching service that connects U.S. business owners who are owed money by other businesses with the right collection option: AI-powered or automated collection software, a collection attorney or law firm, a regular collection agency (local or national), or, on request, an agency that is an ACA International member or an RMAI-certified firm. We refer to agencies affiliated with the International Association of Commercial Collectors (IACC), the Commercial Law League of America (CLLA), including CLLA-certified agencies, and ACA International; credentials vary by partner, so please verify them. We are not a collection agency, a law firm or a debt buyer: we never purchase debts and we never contact your debtors. Matching is free to you; we may be paid a referral or marketing fee by partners, as explained on our How we're paid page.
Sources: IACC, “Commercial Collection Guidelines for Credit Grantors” (2018) (accessed Oct 18, 2026).
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