If you have never had to make one, a call about payment difficulty can feel intimidating. It should not. Here is exactly how it tends to go.
What we will ask
We will ask what has changed, how it is affecting the company's cash flow, and roughly what income and essential outgoings look like now. We ask so we can shape a realistic arrangement — not to catch you out. Honest figures, even uncomfortable ones, get you a better plan.
What we will not do
We will not pressure you into a payment you cannot afford, invent charges, or threaten your home — there is no personal guarantee, so the debt is the company's. We will treat the call as confidential and keep it civil and factual.
How it usually ends
Most calls end with either a confirmed arrangement or a clear next step, which we then put in writing so nothing is left vague. If you would like independent help first, Business Debtline gives free, confidential debt advice to small businesses and the self-employed at businessdebtline.org or on 0800 197 6026.
We lend only to UK limited companies and LLPs, and the loan is to the company with no director personal guarantee. As business finance outside the consumer-credit regime, it is not covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service or FSCS.
See also: How to prepare before you call us about payment trouble, What information should I have ready before calling about difficulty?, How we decide on a payment arrangement for your company.