Understanding Treasury Collection Fees

When it comes to managing your Small Business Administration (SBA) loan, the last thing you want is to encounter additional fees that can exacerbate your financial obligations. Unfortunately, once your SBA debt is transferred to the Treasury Department for collection, you could face substantial increases due to Treasury collection fees, often referred to as cross-servicing fees. These fees can reach up to 32% of your outstanding debt, significantly inflating your financial burden. Let's delve into how this process works and how you can navigate it effectively.

What Triggers Treasury Collection?

The Role of the SBA and Treasury

When you initially take out an SBA loan, your primary point of contact is the SBA or their designated lender. They handle servicing your loan, which includes processing payments and managing any issues that arise. However, if your loan becomes delinquent and remains unresolved, the SBA may refer your debt to the Treasury Department for collection. This transfer marks a significant shift in how your debt is managed and the costs associated with it.

The 60-Day Official Notice

Before your debt is transferred, you'll receive the SBA's 60-Day Official Notice. This critical document is your last opportunity to address your debt directly with the SBA before it moves to the Treasury. It's important to act within this timeframe to explore available options and potentially avoid additional fees.

Exploring Treasury Collection Fees

What Are Treasury Collection Fees?

Once your debt is with the Treasury, collection fees are added to your balance. These fees are meant to cover the costs of enforcing the debt collection, including administrative and operational expenses. The Debt Collection Improvement Act and Federal Claims Collection Standards provide the legal framework for these fees.

How Much Are the Fees?

The cross-servicing fees can be substantial, reaching up to 32% of your outstanding debt. This means if you owe $50,000, you could see an additional $16,000 added in fees, bringing your total obligation to $66,000. It's crucial to understand these fees are not arbitrary; they are part of the structured approach to debt recovery mandated by federal regulations.

Steps to Avoid or Mitigate Treasury Fees

Step 1: Immediate Communication

As soon as you receive the 60-Day Notice, it's vital to communicate with your lender or the SBA. Open communication can lead to alternative solutions such as restructuring the loan or setting up a payment plan. The goal is to resolve the debt before it escalates to Treasury collection.

Step 2: Explore Your Options

You have options. Consider the following strategies to potentially keep your debt from being transferred:

  • Loan Modification: Request a modification of your loan terms to make payments more manageable.
  • Repayment Plan: Work out a feasible repayment plan with the SBA.
  • Compromise Offer: Offer a lump sum payment that is less than the full amount owed, which the SBA may accept as full settlement.

Step 3: Seek Professional Guidance

Navigating SBA and Treasury procedures can be complex. Engaging a professional with expertise in these matters can provide you with strategic advice tailored to your situation. They can help you understand the implications of different options and assist in negotiations.

If Your Debt Is Already with Treasury

Understanding Your Current Situation

If your debt has already been transferred to Treasury, it’s important to understand that you still have paths to resolution. While the fees are now part of your debt, proactive steps can help manage the situation.

Actions to Take

  • Contact Treasury Directly: Engage with the Treasury Department to discuss your debt and explore available repayment options.
  • Consider a Financial Hardship Program: If you’re experiencing financial difficulties, inquire about hardship programs that may offer some relief or reduced payments.
  • Seek Legal Representation: A lawyer specializing in federal debt can offer guidance and potentially negotiate on your behalf.

Why Timely Action Is Critical

Protect Your Assets

Timely action is essential to protect your assets. Once the Treasury begins collection, they have the authority to garnish wages, seize tax refunds, and take other measures to recover the debt. Acting before these measures are implemented can save you significant financial and personal stress.

Avoid Escalating Costs

By addressing the debt early, you not only avoid the Treasury’s 32% fee but also prevent additional interest and penalties from accumulating. The sooner you act, the more options you have to manage and resolve your debt.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your SBA Debt

Facing the prospect of Treasury collection and its associated fees can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that you have options. By understanding the process, acting within the 60-day window, and seeking professional guidance, you can navigate this challenging situation strategically and proactively.

Contact us for a free case evaluation or call 888-756-9969 to learn more about how you can manage your SBA debt effectively and safeguard your financial future. Remember, time is critical, and taking informed steps today can help you avoid the substantial costs of Treasury collection tomorrow.


‍This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified SBA-Attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

If your SBA debt is at risk of being transferred to the Treasury, time is critical. Understand your options now to safeguard your assets and potentially minimize extra costs. Contact us for a free case evaluation or call 888-756-9969 to discuss strategic solutions tailored to your unique situation.