Here are some practical tips on how to prepare for year-end for your credit teams.

1. Start Earlier Than You Think Is Necessary

The biggest driver of a strong year end outcome is lead
time. Begin targeted reviews of overdue accounts at least
three months before year end. Early action gives Credit
teams time to escalate risks, influence settlement outcomes, and avoid
rushed decision making.

2. Be Decisive on Risk and Collectability

Year end is not the time for “wait and see.” Credit teams and
business managers should make clear calls on:

• which debts are still collectible

• which require higher provisioning

• which are unlikely to recover

Consistent, well documented assessments strengthen financial
accuracy, support audit reviews and give a cleaner receivables
ledger.

3. Align Credit Decisions with the Business
Early

Effective Credit teams don’t operate in isolation at year end. Engage
Sales, Operations, and Finance early on high risk, or high value
accounts to agree:

• realistic settlement pathways

• acceptable commercial outcomes

• write-off or escalation thresholds

Early alignment avoids last-minute pressure, protects customer
relationships, and ensures decisions are commercially and financially
sound.

To learn more, check out our learning resourcings at www.nzcfi.com