To work as a bill or account collector, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required beyond high school. However, college course work is helpful if you wish to advance to management.

Knowledge of a language other than English can be helpful. This is because you will contact people who do not speak English as their primary language.

On-the-job training

The length of training varies by the employer and industry. In general, bill and account collectors receive up to one month of on-the-job training. Some receive up to one year of training.

Training may include lectures, videotapes, role-playing, and hands-on experience. You learn about skip tracing and the firm's billing procedures. You also learn communication and negotiating skills. You may also become certified as a Professional Telephone Collector and study the Federal Fair Debt Collection Act. Finally, you learn to use the firm's computer and telephone systems.