Got a letter today threatening us with being refferred to a collection agency for $2.26

[Journeyman]

24. As it's the only statement on this balance they plan to send. . .

when would you want the notice that a collection agency may become involved -- when the collector comes looking for the balance?

I see this as a courtesy notification covering all contingencies. Would you rather they tacked on additional monies to cover the cost of multiple contacts? Or would you rather accept it as a "one letter fits all" and simply pay this pittance when it's due?

I pay my bills. I suspect you do too. There are unfortunately a host of people who don't -- no matter the economic conditions of the times, their present circumstances, or the paltry balance involved.

Maybe it's because I have my own business, and know how much time and money can be wasted in repeat billings, but a letter such as this doesn't surprise me, nor would its receipt anger me. Hell, I'd be ecstatic to have an insurance company that left me with only $2.26 to pay. But that's me.