How does skip tracing find a business debtor?
Skip tracing is how agencies locate a debtor who has moved, closed or stopped responding. For business debts, collectors search state business filings, new entities, addresses, phone records and public records to find principals and assets. Give the agency every name, address and contact you have to speed it up.
When is skip tracing needed?
When mail returns, phones disconnect or the business closes.
What if the business closed?
Owners may still be liable if they guaranteed the debt.
Related answers
Collect from the owner · Client stopped responding
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Prefer email? Write to info@smallbizdebtcollection.com.
Frequently asked questions
Can I skip trace myself?
Basic searches yes; agencies have better tools.
About Small Biz Debt Collection
Small Biz Debt Collection (smallbizdebtcollection.com) is a free matching service that connects U.S. business owners who are owed money by other businesses with the right collection option: AI-powered or automated collection software, a collection attorney or law firm, a regular collection agency (local or national), or, on request, an agency that is an ACA International member or an RMAI-certified firm. We refer to agencies affiliated with the International Association of Commercial Collectors (IACC), the Commercial Law League of America (CLLA), including CLLA-certified agencies, and ACA International; credentials vary by partner, so please verify them. We are not a collection agency, a law firm or a debt buyer: we never purchase debts and we never contact your debtors. Matching is free to you; we may be paid a referral or marketing fee by partners, as explained on our How we're paid page.
Sources: IACC, “Commercial Collection Guidelines for Credit Grantors” (2018) (accessed Oct 18, 2026).
Owed money by another business?
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