---
title: Why Every Late Payment Costs The Practice More Than You Think
description: Late payments hurt your practice. The later the payment, the less money you get. Every other business collects money at the time of service. You can, too!
---

[Blog ](https://www.actdental.com/blog)

# [Why Every Late Payment Costs The Practice More Than You Think](https://www.actdental.com/blog/why-every-late-payment-costs-the-practice-more-than-you-think)

 Written by [Kirk Behrendt](https://www.actdental.com/blog/author/kirk) | May 12, 2025 1:00:00 PM

 

Late payments hurt your practice. If you charge a hundred bucks, and several weeks go by, you’re not getting a hundred bucks. The value of the dollar declines BY THE DAY! Studies have shown that collections drastically decrease after the 90-day mark.

The later the payment, the less money you get.

Late payments also create more work. Once a patient leaves their appointment, you’ll have to chase them down for money. Your receptionist is tired of making those awkward phone calls and asking for fees that are long overdue.

Don’t waste time. Don’t work for free. Collect money at the time of service! Other businesses do it all the time. Imagine walking out of a restaurant or grocery store without paying. There would be an uproar! If other businesses can do it, then so can you.

Create a game plan before patients arrive. Work as a team to make sure patients don’t leave without paying first. Be proactive, create a system and collect the money you deserve!

*Want to collect earlier? Of course you do! Download our *[*nine-step checklist*](https://www.actdental.com/free-resources/9-step-guide-to-improve-collections/)* for free, and start raking in those collections.*

 

[View full post](https://www.actdental.com/blog/why-every-late-payment-costs-the-practice-more-than-you-think)

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