Bill and Account Collector Salary 2025: $47,030 Median, 10.5% Decline Ahead
The median bill and account collector earned $47,030 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $23 per hour, with half of workers earning between $34,400 and $65,580. It's a stable role in finance and healthcare services, but the occupation is shrinking fast — the BLS projects a 10.5% employment decline from 2024 to 2034.
How much Bill and Account Collectors earn
The national median annual wage for bill and account collectors is $47,030. Mean annual pay is $49,060, or about $23.58 per hour. The bottom 10% earn about $34,400, while top earners at the 90th percentile take home $65,580.
Pay varies by industry. Collectors working for finance and insurance firms typically earn more than those at collection agencies or healthcare providers. Experience, certification, and the employer's size also push pay higher.
- Median: $47,030 | Mean: $49,060 | Hourly mean: $23.58
- 10th percentile: $34,400 | 90th percentile: $65,580
- Highest-paying industry: Securities, commodity contracts, and other financial investments (above $70k)
Pay by state
Where you work matters. The District of Columbia pays bill and account collectors the most — an average of $62,230 per year. Alaska ($60,810), Massachusetts ($59,800), California ($57,930), and Connecticut ($57,930) round out the top five.
On the lower end, Louisiana ($39,130), Arkansas ($39,110), and Mississippi ($37,680) offer the lowest average wages. Most states in the South and Midwest fall below the national mean.
- Highest-paying states: DC ($62,230), AK ($60,810), MA ($59,800), CA ($57,930), CT ($57,930)
- Lowest-paying states: LA ($39,130), AR ($39,110), MS ($37,680)
How to become a Bill and Account Collector
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is standard, lasting a few weeks to a few months. Some community colleges offer certificates in collections or credit management, which can give you an edge.
Certifications like the Professional Collection Specialist (PCS) or Certified Credit and Collections Professional (CCCP) are voluntary but preferred by many employers. Key skills include negotiation, basic math, customer service, and familiarity with accounting software.
Typical entry-level jobs are as a collector at a third-party agency or in-house for a bank, hospital, or utility. Advancement to senior collector, team lead, or manager is possible with experience.
- Step 1: Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Step 2: Gain entry-level experience in customer service or administrative roles.
- Step 3: Complete on-the-job training (2 weeks–3 months).
- Step 4: Earn optional certifications (PCS or CCCP) to boost pay and promotion chances.
- Step 5: Apply to collection agencies, banks, hospitals, or government debt offices.
Job outlook
Employment for bill and account collectors is projected to decline 10.5% from 2024 to 2034. That's a loss of about 16,700 jobs over the decade, though around 13,700 openings per year will still arise from workers leaving the field.
Automation is the main culprit — software now handles many routine collection calls and payment reminders. Still, jobs won't vanish entirely. Complex accounts, legal actions, and high-value debts still need human judgment. The best opportunities will be in healthcare and government debt collection, where accounts are more nuanced.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a bill and account collector?
The national median annual salary is $47,030, with a mean of $49,060 (about $23.58 per hour). The typical range is $34,400 to $65,580.
How do I become a bill and account collector?
You usually need a high school diploma and get on-the-job training. Voluntary certifications like the PCS or CCCP can help. Key skills include negotiation, basic math, and computer proficiency.
Is bill and account collector a declining job?
Yes. The BLS projects a 10.5% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034 due to automation. However, about 13,700 openings per year are expected from turnover.
Which states pay bill and account collectors the most?
The highest average wages are in Washington, D.C. ($62,230), Alaska ($60,810), Massachusetts ($59,800), California ($57,930), and Connecticut ($57,930).
What does a bill and account collector do?
They contact customers with overdue bills, negotiate payment plans, track payments, and update account records. Work may be done by phone, email, or mail.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Bill and Account Collectors data.