Two agencies can quote different percentages and still leave you with the same amount. You need to know the fee basis, the payment scenario, and the costs outside the commission.
Start with the amount actually recovered.
In the simple examples below, the commission is charged on the payment received. Separate costs are amounts the business pays outside that commission. Your agreement may use different terms; enter those separately.
| Payment received | Commission | Separate costs | Net to business |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | 20% / $10,000 | $2,500 | $37,500 |
| $50,000 | 25% / $12,500 | $0 | $37,500 |
| $60,000 | 30% / $18,000 | $0 | $42,000 |
The third row uses a different payment assumption. It does not establish that an agency charging 30% will collect more. Ask what evidence supports any proposed recovery expectation.
Compare your own proposals
The free decision kit puts three scenarios and the important contract terms together.
Open the Commercial Collection Decision KitAsk these five fee questions.
- What is the commission charged on? Confirm how partial payments, settlements, interest and direct customer payments are treated.
- Can the rate change? Account age, amount, prior placement, debtor country and legal escalation may change the schedule.
- What sits outside the commission? Ask about filing costs, attorney deposits, retainers and any other charges. Get written approval rules.
- When does the money reach us? Ask whether remittance follows cleared funds and how frequently statements and payments are issued.
- What happens when we withdraw an account? Read exclusivity, cancellation and transfer terms before placing it.
Published rates need their program context.
A special member price or a small-account program is not a general commercial quote. For example, Brennan & Clark's Fast Track program has its own account-size and monthly-volume conditions. BARR's PPAI schedule is for eligible member first placements. Our agency comparison identifies those scopes beside the relevant listing.
Compare the proposed work alongside the fee.
Give every shortlisted agency the same account history. Ask who will review the documents, how it handles a dispute, what changes after unsuccessful prior attempts, and how your team receives updates. Price is useful when you understand what you are buying.
Use the eight agency-selection questions.
Service and program sources reviewed October 11, 2026. Rates and eligibility can change; the written proposal and agreement control your placement.