Why do letters issued by the external collection agencies differ in their wording?
Letters issued by the external collection agencies meet industry standards, with each agency using their preferred language. This language has been developed and fine tuned over many years, reflecting each agency’s experience and expertise in the field and their preferred approach to collections. Notwithstanding, the Tax Office has approved these letters before their use. Some letters issued to taxpayers are demanding payment ‘today’ and are not dissimilar to Tax Office debt letters, with our wording generally saying ‘immediately’. All agency letters also state that if the taxpayer is unable to pay, contact should be made with the agency to discuss the matter further. The Tax Office strongly encourages taxpayers or their representatives to contact the agency if they are having difficulty in meeting the request for payment. Much like Tax Office staff, agency staff will work with the taxpayer to help them meet their payment obligations.
