How to Find Out What Rights I Have to Money That Is Owed to Me?

If you are owed money by someone, that person has implicitly violated a contract between the two of you. Perhaps a loan hasn't been repaid, an item has been lost, sold or stolen, or you are owed money for some other reason. Regardless, the burden of proof lies with you, the person seeking damages.

Dig for Proof, Focus on Your Target and Reclaim What's Yours

• 1

  Do everything in your power to recover any physical proof of a contract, be it auditory or visual. Oral agreements are legally binding, but a genuine signed document or recording of some sort is much harder to argue with.

• 2

  Single out who owes you money. This should be easy with a personal matter, but may not be obvious when dealing with a business or public office. Seeking money owed to you is a legal process that must be handled sensitively if you wish to avoid breaking the law yourself.

• 3

  Take it to court. Depending on the amount owed you may wish to hire legal representation, but ultimately a financial dispute is destined for civil claims court. You may also be entitled to damages to offset expenses incurred during the dispute.