How to Become a Bill Collector

If you have good communication skills, are interested in a career in the financial field and have thick skin, you can become a bill collector. Bill collectors make calls to individuals who have past due accounts. It is the job of the bill collector to obtain payment from these debtors. You won't be the most popular person, but if you can handle the adversity, you can become a bill collector.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Have at least a high school education. Most companies won't require a college degree, but it might be helpful to take courses in communications and finance.
2. Be articulate. Have strong communications skills. Be patient but persuasive. Be prepared to face hostile individuals. Try to understand their position and work with them to satisfy their debts in a timely, agreeable manner.
3. Learn state and federal laws regarding bill collecting. Laws may vary state to state. Become proficient in techniques for soliciting payments of overdue bills and finding debtors. Learn about collection practices.
4. Search for bill collector jobs through collection agencies, banks and credit-reporting companies. Check online job sites such as CareerBuilders as well as the classified section of your local newspaper. Look under headings such as "Billing" or "Collection."
5. Become certified by the American Collectors Association (ACA). Some companies require this certification. Have at least 12 months experience and be with your current employer for 6 months. Complete 2 seminars sponsored by the ACA and pass a written examination by scoring at least an 85.

Tips & Warnings

• The two required ACA-sponsored seminars must be on telephone techniques and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.

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