What you'll do
- Understand why direct payments must be reported
- Gather the details we need to update the file
- Report a direct payment through the right steps
- Understand how commission may apply to direct payments
- Keep your records and ours in step
5 min
Why reporting matters
Once a debt is referred, it is common for a debtor to suddenly pay you directly. When that happens, tell us straight away. Reporting it keeps the file accurate, stops unnecessary contact with the debtor, and ensures everything is reconciled correctly. A quick message prevents crossed wires.
How to report it
- Find the matter reference for the debt.
- Contact your recovery officer to report the direct payment.
- State the amount received and the date it was paid.
- Confirm whether it was a full or part-payment.
- Note any remaining balance still owed.
- Ask for confirmation that the file has been updated.
Reporting promptly keeps both your records and ours in step.
Commission on direct payments
Where recovery work has contributed to the debtor paying, a commission may apply even though the money came to you directly, so check how the commission model treats direct payments. If the debt is now fully paid, you may also wish to withdraw the matter. You can refer further debts any time at merion.com.au/refer-a-debt.
Good to know
- Report direct payments straight away to keep the file accurate
- Provide the amount, date and whether it was full or part-payment
- Commission may still apply where recovery work led to the payment
FAQ
Why do I need to report a payment the debtor made to me?
So the file is accurate, contact with the debtor stops, and everything is reconciled correctly. A quick message avoids crossed wires.
Will I owe commission on a direct payment?
Where recovery work contributed to the payment, commission may apply even though the money came to you directly. Confirm how it is treated.
What if it was only a part-payment?
Report the amount and date, and note the remaining balance. Recovery can continue on the outstanding portion.
Still not sure? Our team is happy to talk it through.