<span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;"><span dir="auto" style="vertical-align: inherit;">I'm curious how other small business owners deal with customers who keep delaying payment on an invoice. I've tried sending reminders and giving clear payment deadlines, but there are always a few accounts that still remain unpaid. At what point does it make sense to consider outside help, and what should I check before working with a debt collection agency? I'd be interested to hear about practical steps people have taken and whether contacting customers directly first usually works.</span></span>