First let me introduce myself, my name is Sandra Rivera and I am the founder of Fidelity Credit Consulting Services.

We are an outsourcing service that specializes in credit, collections and accounts receivables. We assist small to medium size companies assess risk. One of the main questions I get is, why should I outsource? Outsourcing can benefit you and your company because it allows you to focus on the core aspects of your business. Outsourcing can also be cost efficient since internal costs such workmen’s compensation, health insurance, and other benefits are eliminated.

I plan to use this space as a forum where I can give business owners and others tools and tips related to your accounts receivables and credit, focusing on processes and procedures. Occasionally I’ll broaden the scope of our conversation and look at bigger economic trends (with a focus on receivables and credit of course). This blog will be updated on a weekly basis, unless I feel that there is urgent information I need to post.

Please leave your comments and questions. They will help the blog focus on the issues that are most important to you!

I’ll start with a few simple tips on credit applications.

1. Make sure you ask for social security numbers. This comes in handy if it is a new business and you must run a check on his personal credit.

2. Ask for at least three trade references and if you belong to an industry credit group even better. They will only usually give you the references they are paying. If you belong to a credit group you will have access to everyone they are buying from.

3. When having them sign a personal guarantee, also get a spouse’s signature. Many times assets are hidden under a spouse’s name