™Frequently asked questions
Answers for businesses referring a debt, people arranging process serving, and people we’ve contacted.
Referring a debt
What does it cost?
Commission on what we recover: 25% under $1,000, 20% for $1,000 to $4,999, 15% for $5,000 to $10,000 and 10% over $10,000, all plus GST. No letter, admin, lodgement or upfront fees, and no commission is payable if nothing is collected. Skip tracing and field calls are charged in addition, quoted case by case and only with your approval. See Fees.
What do I need to send?
The referral form, copies of the unpaid invoices, and any signed quote, terms or credit application. See what we need from you.
Where does my customer need to be?
Anywhere. Letters, calls and payment plans work wherever your customer is. A field call further away is quoted by location.
How will I know what’s happening?
We update you whenever there’s contact with your customer or a payment is received.
When do I get paid?
Once the debt is paid in full, within 5 business days of the funds clearing, with a statement. Instalments are held in the client funds (trust) account until the debt is paid in full.
Do you take on small debts or private debts between individuals?
Yes, as long as there’s documentation showing the money is owed.
Process serving
Who do you serve documents for?
Solicitors and law firms, especially around Bendigo, and individuals handling their own matters, including family law matters. See Process serving.
What does process serving cost?
Fees are charged in line with the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria scale of costs for service, plus GST; urgent or after-hours service is quoted before we start.
What do I need to send?
Individuals: fill in the Request a service form (the person’s full name and likely addresses, a description, any safety concerns and your deadline), then email the court documents, and a photo of the person if you have one, to mark@victoriancountrymercantile.com.au with your name and the other party’s name in the subject line.
Can you advise me on my family law matter?
No. VCM can’t give legal advice. Please check the court’s requirements or speak to a lawyer. Free legal help may be available from Victoria Legal Aid or a community legal centre.
If we’ve contacted you
See Been contacted by VCM? for who we are, how to reach us, and what to do if you can’t pay or think you don’t owe the money.