International debt collection is the recovery of unpaid invoices across borders. We work with in-country partner agencies and attorneys who speak the debtor's language and know local procedure, and we also collect from U.S. businesses on behalf of foreign creditors.
Two directions
- U.S. companies collecting from customers in Canada, Mexico, the UK, the EU, the Gulf and Asia
- Foreign companies collecting from U.S. businesses
What changes across borders
Enforcing a U.S. judgment abroad depends on the country. Some recognize U.S. judgments relatively easily; others require a new suit. We set realistic expectations before you commit.
How a cross-border file runs
We start in English with a demand from us and then pass the account to an in-country partner who contacts the debtor in its own language, during its business hours, and in the style local businesses expect. A letter from a local agency or law firm signals that the creditor can act where the debtor actually is, which is often what produces payment.
Most international accounts resolve at this amicable stage. If they do not, the partner sends a report on the debtor's status and assets, the local legal options, expected costs and a realistic timeline. Legal action abroad can be slower and more expensive than in the U.S., so we only recommend it when the balance and the debtor's assets justify it.
Contract terms that matter abroad
- Governing law and forum clauses decide which country's courts hear a dispute
- Arbitration clauses can be powerful because arbitration awards are generally enforceable in the many countries that have joined the New York Convention
- For sales of goods between businesses in different countries, the UN Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) can apply automatically when both countries have adopted it, unless the contract excludes it
- Payment security such as letters of credit, documentary collections or export credit insurance can be worth more than any collection effort later
- Invoices should state the currency, and the contract should say who bears bank and conversion fees
Foreign creditors collecting in the U.S.
If your company is outside the U.S. and a U.S. business owes you money, we work the account directly. We identify the debtor's exact legal entity through Secretary of State records, contact its decision-makers by phone, email and letter, and report back in English. Our domestic rates and the same client portal apply.
If suit is needed, U.S. courts generally hear claims by foreign creditors on the same footing as domestic ones. We forward the file to a collections attorney in the debtor's county with your approval and explain the costs, the timeline and how a U.S. judgment is enforced against bank accounts and receivables.
Before you sell abroad on credit
- Check the buyer's registration in its home country and get a credit report from a local source
- Start with smaller orders or partial prepayment until a payment history exists
- Put governing law, forum or arbitration and currency terms in a signed contract, not only on the invoice
- Keep shipping documents, customs records and delivery confirmations for every shipment
- Place unpaid foreign accounts early, since time zones, language and distance make silence easier for a debtor to maintain
Frequently asked questions
What does international collection cost?
International files are usually quoted at around 25–35% contingency depending on country, age and balance.
Do you need documents translated?
Usually not at the amicable stage. Invoices, contracts and emails in English are normally enough for our partners. If a case goes to court abroad, certified translations may be required, and we quote that cost before you approve.
How do I get paid in my own currency?
The debtor wires your own bank account, in the currency of your invoices where possible. If they pay in another currency, your bank handles conversion, and we can discuss other arrangements for large files.
Can a U.S. judgment be enforced in another country?
It depends on the country. Some recognize U.S. money judgments through a local court proceeding, while others require a new lawsuit on the original claim. An arbitration award is often easier to enforce abroad than a court judgment. Our partner in the debtor's country will advise before you spend money on suit.
Related services
- Commercial collections
- Pre-collection letters
- Legal collections
- Judgment enforcement
- Skip tracing
- Bankruptcy claims
- Lien & bond claims
Industries we serve
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