Williams Rush & Associates

When a customer delays their payment, how long do you have to collect what you’re owed? In Texas, you generally have four years from the date the payment was missed or the contract was breached. During this four-year window, you can take legal action to recover the debt. But after that period passes, your right to collect in court expires. When does the time to collect start? For most businesses, the countdown starts when the payment is due but is never received. It could also start when you completed a service or delivered a product and the client didn’t pay. If you provide ongoing work or send regular invoices, the clock might not start until your business relationship with the client ends.   Can the deadline on a debt be paused or restarted? In some situations, the four-year period can restart. For example, if the debtor signs a new agreement acknowledging the debt (like a payment plan), the clock restarts from that date. The countdown can also pause temporarily when the de...

Outstanding rent can stress even the most experienced property managers. When tenants default, it impacts cash flow, disrupts property maintenance, and hinders long-term financial stability. For landlords in Dallas, TX, there is a need for structured rent recovery processes, especially in markets where timely payment can ensure steady investment returns. So, if you are wondering how to improve rent recovery from non-paying tenants, here are five ways to do so: 1. Set Clear Payment Terms Clearly set out a transparent payment policy that outlines due dates, acceptable payment methods, grace periods, late fees, and communication protocols. This level of clarity reduces ambiguity about rent obligations. 2. Maintain Consistent Communication When payments are delayed, respectful communication can help make a difference. So, you should send out friendly reminders and follow up immediately after the payment is missed. You would be surprised to know that many tenants respond promptly when appro...