Key Facts
- 50% of all B2B invoices in the US are currently overdue, creating significant cash flow challenges for businesses.
- Bad debts average 8% of all B2B invoices in the US, with the chemicals industry hit the hardest.
- 15% more US businesses are adopting strategic credit risk measures like credit insurance compared to last year.
- 50% of US companies expect an increase in insolvencies in the year ahead, especially in steel and metals.
- 45% of businesses anticipate stable Days Sales Outstanding (DSO), while a similar share expect better debt collection.
- Real-time payments have been operational in the US via the RTP network since 2017, with rapid growth year over year.
- One in two US businesses faces payment delays, contributing to a fragmented and risky B2B credit environment.
Still paying for 10+ software subscriptions that don't talk to each other?
We build custom AI systems you own. No vendor lock-in. Full control. Starting at $2,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a customer legally refuse to pay an invoice if they're unhappy with the service?
How can I reduce the number of late or unpaid invoices in my small business?
Are off-the-shelf invoicing tools enough to handle payment delays and disputes?
What’s the benefit of using AI for accounts receivable compared to traditional methods?
How do real-time payments impact invoice collection for SMBs?
Is it worth investing in a custom AI solution for invoicing instead of renting software?
Turn Payment Delays Into Predictable Cash Flow
The question 'Can a customer refuse to pay an invoice?' isn’t just about payment—it’s a red flag for deeper financial workflow inefficiencies like delayed follow-ups, dispute mismanagement, and compliance risks. As we’ve explored, relying on fragmented tools or no-code automation without context-aware logic only amplifies these issues, leading to longer DSO and increased manual effort. At AIQ Labs, we go beyond off-the-shelf solutions by building custom AI workflows that bring intelligence and autonomy to your financial operations. Our AI-powered invoice follow-up engine, real-time payment risk scoring system, and compliance-aware dispute tracking workflows are production-ready systems designed to reduce manual effort by 20–40 hours per week and deliver results within 30–60 days. Built on platforms like Agentive AIQ and Briefsy, these solutions integrate deeply with your existing processes, adapt over time, and scale with your growth. Unlike generic tools, we don’t just connect systems—we build intelligent financial workflows that understand your business context. Ready to transform your accounts receivable? Schedule a free AI audit today and receive a tailored roadmap to close automation gaps and unlock faster, more reliable cash flow.
Ready to make AI your competitive advantage—not just another tool?
Strategic consulting + implementation + ongoing optimization. One partner. Complete AI transformation.