# Automate Debt Collection Letters

> Send demand letters and collection notices via certified mail programmatically. Track delivery and log proof of service for FDCPA compliance.

## The workflow

1. Account crosses aging threshold or collections queue flags it
2. System generates demand letter PDF with account details, balance, cure period, and required disclosures
3. POST the PDF to mailbox.bot with `mail_class=certified`
4. mailbox.bot prints, stuffs, stamps, and mails via USPS Certified Mail
5. Delivery events update the account record. No response triggers escalation.

## Code example

```python
import requests

resp = requests.post(
    "https://mailbox.bot/api/v1/mail",
    headers={"Authorization": "Bearer sk_agent_live_..."},
    files={"document": open("demand-letter.pdf", "rb")},
    data={
        "recipient_name": "Jane Smith",
        "recipient_line1": "789 Elm St",
        "recipient_city": "Austin",
        "recipient_state": "TX",
        "recipient_zip": "78701",
        "mail_class": "certified",
    },
)
mail = resp.json()["outbound_mail"]
# mail["id"], mail["status"], mail["cost_display"]
```

## Why certified mail for collections

- FDCPA and state regulations often require proof that the debtor was notified
- Certified mail tracking provides that proof
- Email does not satisfy legal notice requirements
- Return receipt provides proof the recipient received the letter

## Cost

- 1-page certified demand letter: $6.38 ($0.30 printing + $6.08 postage)
- With return receipt: $10.78 ($0.30 printing + $10.48 postage)
- No monthly fee for outbound-only

## Best for

- Collection agencies automating demand letter workflows
- Fintech platforms with automated accounts receivable
- Legal teams sending pre-litigation demand letters
- Any billing system where certified mail is required before escalation

## Related

- HTML page: https://mailbox.bot/use-cases/debt-collection-mail
- Certified mail API: https://mailbox.bot/use-cases/certified-mail-api
- Legal notice automation: https://mailbox.bot/use-cases/legal-notice-automation