Changing Your Invoice Finance Provider

Are you contemplating a change in your invoice finance provider? Whether due to dissatisfaction or strategic reasons, this guide is your roadmap to a wise decision. Delve into everything from deciphering UCCs to navigating the transition process, armed with essential questions that will shape your future financial partnerships.

Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Explained

Understanding UCCs is crucial in invoice financing. It's the tool finance companies use to secure their stake in your invoices, functioning similarly to:

• Asset rights tracking mechanisms.
• Alert systems for other lenders about existing deals.
• First-rights assurance for financiers over your invoices, akin to mortgages or car titles.

Transitioning Between Providers

Switching providers involves a critical "buyout" phase. Here, your new provider assumes the balance from the old one, akin to refinancing a mortgage. This pivotal step is defined by a Buyout Agreement, essential for a smooth transition.

Calculating the Buyout Amount

The buyout amount, comprising unpaid invoices minus reserves and additional fees, is a key figure. Ensure you request a detailed breakdown to understand any extra charges. This knowledge is vital, particularly if the new deal offers a more favorable advance rate to cover the buyout seamlessly.

Cost Implications of a Buyout

Transitioning can be economically balanced by providing new invoices to your new financier. However, using previously financed invoices may lead to doubled fees. Some financiers offer fee reductions, but timely communication with your old provider is crucial to avoid extra costs.

Time Considerations

The switch may extend the usual timeline due to the intricacies of buyout calculations and necessary approvals. Collaborating with an experienced financier can expedite this process effectively.

Complex Scenarios

In specific cases, rights to your invoices might be shared between old and new financiers until the settlement, though this is not a typical scenario.

Questions to Ponder Before Committing

• Is it feasible to engage with multiple invoice finance companies concurrently?
• What are the stipulations for changing providers, including notice periods and potential penalties?
• What is the payment processing duration with the new provider?
• Who will be your primary contacts within the finance company?
• Are there postage costs involved for invoice mailing?
• Are additional charges applicable for credit checks or new customer setups?
• When does the provider start holding reserves?