Collection Agencies
Key Figures
Figures are published for NAICS 56144 directly.
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Official definition
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in collecting payments for claims and remitting payments collected to their clients.
Source: US Census Bureau, 2017 NAICS Definitions. Public domain. Census publishes this definition under NAICS 561440, the only detailed industry in this group.
Illustrative examples
- Account or delinquent account collection services
- Tax collection services on a contract or fee basis
- Bill or debt collection services
Which code does this activity belong in?
Collection agencies are distinguished from telephone call centers by their primary function of collecting payments and remitting them to clients, rather than simply answering calls or conducting telemarketing on behalf of clients. While telemarketing establishments in call centers originate calls to promote products or solicit contributions, collection agencies specifically pursue outstanding claims and debts. Collection agencies also differ from other business support services, which handle diverse functions such as court reporting and repossession but exclude the monetary debt collection activity that defines this industry.
Written for NAICS 561440, the only detailed industry in this group.