Collections work isn't the most popular specialty in the field of private investigation. It is also not the most enjoyable, and it can even be dangerous. Those who do this usually work with collection agencies or attorneys. For a fee or, less often, a percentage of the amount she collects, the PI searches for people who have skipped out on loans and owe money or leave bad checks in their wake.

Working these cases might involve locating the person who is in possession of the item you are to repossess or who owes the money you're paid to collect. Collecting money from someone who insists he doesn't have it is difficult, but if the investigator can locate the subject and follow him to his workplace, the creditor may obtain permission to dock his salary. This is done extensively in delinquent child support cases. If the subject has no job, he's subject to time in jail.

Private investigators who specialize in repossessions are often asked to repossess vehicles.

Not every person who's in default runs away. Some can be located in the phone book or with information provided by the creditor. However, even these people may not answer telephones or open their door to you, so many investigators develop a ruse to get the target to the door. Realize that you cannot threaten, bully, or force anyone into paying debts. Since you'll probably be paid only if the debtor pays, this is a tough business.

However, nothing's tougher than repossessions. Most items such as vehicles, watercraft, and aircraft are repossessed at night, hopefully while the debtor sleeps. This exposes the investigator to danger, not only from the debtor, but from neighbors and even police until they can be made aware of your legal repossess order. While vehicles are most often subject to repossession, you may be commissioned to repossess stereo systems, appliances, and even furniture. These items are more difficult to take. Those who repossess often describe their work as stealing for a living.