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Debt Recovery

What To Do When Someone Owes You Money

12 September 20261 min readBy Wambo Muyala & Co. Advocates

Unpaid debts can strain relationships and cash flow. Understanding your options early makes a difference.

Being owed money — by a customer, a tenant, a business partner or a friend — can be stressful. Knowing what to do first can improve your chances of a practical outcome.

Gather your records

Collect any agreement, invoices, messages, receipts and payment records. Clear evidence of what was agreed and what has been paid is the foundation of any recovery effort.

Communicate in writing

A polite written reminder that sets out the amount, the basis of the debt and a reasonable date for payment creates a useful record.

Consider a formal demand

A demand letter prepared by an advocate sets out your position clearly and often prompts a response. It can also be an important step before any further legal action.

Explore practical solutions

Negotiation or mediation can sometimes produce a payment arrangement more quickly than court proceedings.

Be aware of time

Legal claims can be subject to time limits, so it is sensible to seek advice sooner rather than later.

This article is general information and not legal advice for a specific situation.

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes and should not be treated as legal advice for a specific matter.

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