Risk

Five signs that a customer may default

6 min·Updated 15.06.2026·Reviewed by Kredittdata

Most losses could have been avoided with a little early attention. Here are five signals that often appear before a customer runs into serious payment problems.

1. Changed payment pattern

The customer who always paid on time starts to stretch the deadlines. Gradually slower payment is often the very first sign that liquidity is under pressure.

2. Declining key figures

Falling revenue, weakened equity or negative operations over time reduce the ability to withstand unexpected costs.

3. New remarks or debt collection

A fresh payment remark means that others have already gone unpaid. It is a strong warning.

4. Frequent role changes

Constant turnover in the board or management can indicate internal unrest.

5. Downgraded rating

A score that falls several months in a row
A rating that moves from A to B
Increased modelled bankruptcy risk

With automatic monitoring you catch these changes the same day they happen – and can adjust the credit limit or require prepayment in time.

Frequently asked questions

Which signs show that a customer may run into payment problems?

Five common signals often appear before serious problems: a changed payment pattern, declining key figures, new remarks or debt collection, frequent role changes, and a downgraded rating.

What is the earliest sign that a customer is struggling?

Often a changed payment pattern – the customer who always paid on time starts to stretch the deadlines. Gradually slower payment is usually the very first sign that liquidity is under pressure.

How do I catch the warning signs in time?

With automatic monitoring you catch changes such as new remarks or a falling score the same day they happen, and can adjust the credit limit or require prepayment before a loss occurs.