Many businesses send collection letters and make every possible attempt to collect money that customers owe them before they take their debtors to court. The following sample collection letter presents an attempt to collect a debt in order to avoid court proceedings.

Furniture Shop
Street Address
City, State, Zip

Date (MM/DD/YYYY)

Dear Mr. Schilling:

We have diligently endeavored to persuade you to pay your delinquent balance. We have suggested several different extensions of the payment period, arrangements for smaller monthly payments, and lenders who can assist you in your situation. We have entreated you to discuss this matter with us, at the very least.

We have come to the end of our resources, and we must now seek help from outside our own company. Therefore, we consulted with our attorney, who advised us that we have several available options for obtaining the money you owe us.

We are very interested in resolving this issue without going to court. Therefore, we have decided to extend your credit for 30 days from the date of this letter.

To avoid legal action, we must receive your check for $5,673.98 on or before [date (MM/DD/YYYY)].

Sincerely,

Nancy Goodgal
Office Manager