How much does a Collections Specialist make?
A Collections Specialist plays a key role in helping businesses recover money owed by customers. This job often involves contacting debtors and negotiating payments. The average yearly salary for a Collections Specialist is around $43,627. This means that most specialists earn somewhere between $28,000 and $68,950 each year.
The salary can vary based on several factors. These include experience, location, and the type of company. Specialists with more experience or those who work in larger cities often earn more. Companies in certain industries, like finance or healthcare, may also offer higher pay. This job can be a good choice for those who enjoy problem-solving and working with people.
What are the highest paying cities for a Collections Specialist?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $71,031
In San Francisco, professionals in this field work with some of the nation's top tech companies. They handle accounts receivable and ensure timely payments. The city's dynamic economy offers many opportunities for growth.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $66,292
Washington, DC, provides a unique environment for those in this role. They often work with government agencies and non-profits. The city's political landscape offers a stable job market.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $62,998
Boston offers a mix of financial and educational institutions for specialists. They interact with a diverse client base, from students to businesses. The city's rich history adds a unique charm to the work environment.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $54,828
Riverside provides a more relaxed pace for those in this field. They work with local businesses and residents, focusing on community relationships. The city's growing economy offers steady job prospects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $54,617
Los Angeles offers a vibrant and diverse work environment. Specialists here interact with a wide range of clients, from entertainment companies to small businesses. The city's entertainment industry adds a dynamic flair to the job.
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Reno, NV
Average Salary: $53,804
Reno provides a smaller-city feel with opportunities in both gaming and hospitality. Specialists here work with a mix of local businesses and tourists. The city's growing economy offers good job stability.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $51,735
Portland offers a progressive and eco-friendly work environment. Specialists here interact with a variety of local businesses and startups. The city's strong community focus creates a supportive work atmosphere.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $51,453
San Jose, part of Silicon Valley, offers a tech-driven environment for professionals. They work with some of the world's leading tech companies. The city's innovative spirit provides many opportunities for career advancement.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $51,249
Seattle offers a mix of tech and maritime industries for specialists. They work with a diverse client base, from tech giants to shipping companies. The city's vibrant culture adds to the job experience.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $50,974
Stamford provides a corporate environment with many financial institutions. Specialists here handle accounts for large corporations. The city's proximity to New York City offers additional job opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Collections Specialist can work for?

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Turn2Partners
Average Salary: $56,481
Turn2Partners offers rewarding roles in collections. They focus on providing excellent customer service and have locations across the U.S. Their team works to ensure clients receive timely and effective service.
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High Country Search Group
Average Salary: $56,000
High Country Search Group provides collections jobs with a focus on professionalism. They operate in various locations and emphasize teamwork and client satisfaction. Their roles require strong communication skills.
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Columbia Debt Recovery
Average Salary: $55,667
Columbia Debt Recovery is known for its competitive salaries in collections. They have offices in several states and value their employees' contributions. Their work involves resolving debts and maintaining good client relationships.
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CALL-A-HEAD CORP.
Average Salary: $53,655
CALL-A-HEAD CORP. offers collections positions with a focus on efficiency and customer service. They have locations nationwide and provide training to help employees succeed. Their roles require attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
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Addison Group
Average Salary: $53,526
Addison Group provides collections jobs with a variety of opportunities. They operate in multiple locations and focus on professional development. Their team works to achieve positive outcomes for clients and the company.
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Randstad
Average Salary: $53,240
Randstad offers collections roles with a strong emphasis on career growth. They have offices across the country and provide support to their employees. Their work involves managing accounts and ensuring timely payments.
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Leeds Professional Resources
Average Salary: $52,980
Leeds Professional Resources provides collections jobs with a focus on excellence. They operate in various locations and value their employees' contributions. Their roles require strong communication and negotiation skills.
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Optum
Average Salary: $52,681
Optum offers collections positions with a focus on health and wellness. They have offices nationwide and provide a supportive work environment. Their work involves managing accounts and ensuring client satisfaction.
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Ledgent Finance & Accounting
Average Salary: $52,611
Ledgent Finance & Accounting provides collections jobs with a focus on accuracy and efficiency. They operate in multiple locations and value teamwork. Their roles require attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $52,392
Vaco offers collections roles with a focus on professional development. They have offices across the U.S. and provide training to help employees succeed. Their work involves managing accounts and ensuring timely payments.
How to earn more as a Collections Specialist?
A Collections Specialist can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Building strong relationships with clients helps in understanding their situations better. This understanding can lead to more effective communication and quicker resolutions. Specialists who can negotiate effectively often find themselves earning more. They can secure better payment terms and sometimes even recover more funds.
Specialists who continuously improve their skills can also earn more. This includes learning about new collection techniques and staying updated on laws and regulations. Attending workshops and getting certifications can make a big difference. Networking with other professionals in the field can open up new opportunities. These connections can lead to higher-paying positions or even freelance work. Finally, taking on more responsibilities or roles within the company can lead to higher pay. This might include managing a team or handling more complex cases.
Here are five factors that can help a Collections Specialist earn more:
- Build strong client relationships
- Improve negotiation skills
- Continuously improve skills
- Network with other professionals
- Take on more responsibilities



