Credit control works best when it starts before an invoice becomes overdue. The aim is not to turn every customer conversation into a dispute. It is to make the agreed amount, due date, evidence and next action clear while the work and the relationship are still current.
Before work starts
- Confirm who is buying, the agreed scope, price, invoicing point and payment terms.
- Record the contact who can approve the work and deal with an invoice query.
- Keep the quote, order, acceptance and any scope changes together.
When you invoice
- Send the invoice promptly with the information the customer needs to approve it.
- State the due date and payment method clearly.
- Record when it was sent and the next follow-up date.
When payment is late
- Check whether the invoice was received and whether a specific query exists.
- Keep one record of the promised date, disputed amount and person responsible.
- Agree a next action and review it on that date. Do not leave a balance marked “chasing” with no owner.
- Escalate a material or persistent dispute with the contract and evidence to an appropriate adviser before relying on any legal remedy.
A monthly owner review
Review overdue debt by customer, amount, dispute status, promised date and next action. Compare expected receipts with supplier, payroll, finance and tax commitments so the cash forecast reflects reality.
This is a practical control routine, not debt-recovery or legal advice. Use the terms actually agreed with the customer and obtain advice where a dispute or formal recovery step is material.
Related FoxSums resources
- 13-Week Cash-Flow Forecast
- Cash-Flow Forecasting: A Practical Guide for Small Businesses
- Debtor Days Calculator
- Receivables and Collection-Action Register
Next step
Use the Receivables and Collection-Action Register to give every unpaid invoice one clear next action.
Important
General information only. Check the facts and current official guidance for the business’s circumstances.
Sources and review
- Evidence check date: 2 November 2026.
- FoxSums operational guidance. This resource does not make a tax, legal or regulatory determination.