SMS Can Drastically Improve the Cost Effectiveness of Your Collections Process

In the past, collections agencies have utilized automated calls and effective agents to receive payments from the overdue accounts of borrowers. These days, we have the advantage of automated digital options, including email and apps to help remind customers of their bills. One method has risen to the top recently, though – the SMS authorized payment. 

Due to the explosion in mobile traffic, lenders are turning to SMS as the principal way to reach the bearers of overdue accounts. Everyone has a mobile phone, and since they tend to carry them at all times, this has made the method of SMS authorized payments very attractive to lenders. Collections agencies are now reporting that SMS strategies for collections have the highest rate of successful repayments.

Reduction in Expenses

The benefits to lenders are clear. SMS authorized payments reduce costs for the lender, while providing a superior customer experience. Studies show that SMS payments cost lenders about one-quarter of the amount required for automated voice services, and only a tenth of what it costs to pay an agent to secure collections.

Customer Preference

In addition, customers prefer digital contact with lenders rather than with a direct agent. There are many reasons that borrowers lean toward digital contact: Agents can be more difficult for customers to interact with, and digital methods are less embarrassing and intrusive for borrowers.

Provided that a lender abides by all privacy laws while leaving preferences up to the customer, most customers will choose to pay through interactive SMS correspondence. Options must be provided for each borrower: should a customer decide to pay using another method, the lender should work to allow for these changes. As always, any and all payments must be allocated by the collections system, regardless of method.

Integration

SMS technology is also one of the easiest methods to incorporate into established collections systems. Once receiving the SMS past due alert, the customer can pay by phone or click through to the website in order to create a payment plan, chat with a live agent, and schedule future payments. It is on the website that the customer should be given the option to manage their payments through SMS authorized payments according to their schedule. These preferences should include the best way for the lender to contact the borrower as well. Creating ease-of-use online will drastically impact your opt-in text list.

All in all, SMS authorized payments are the wave of collections’ future. Consider the benefits to your agency, and the peace of mind you will provide for customers.