It may depend on how the business was organized. If they were a corporation or LLC and they notified your state or county agency that registers business entities that they were ceasing business, then the business no longer legally exists, so you can't collect from them. They don't need to file bankruptcy to close. If the business was a sole proprietorship or a partnership, the debts of the business are considered personal debts of the owners, so you can still collect from them, even if the business is closed. Many states have web sites where you can check the status of a business. You might look for the one for your state. If it indicates that the business is still in good standing, then you might have your attorney contact them to collect the debt before they legally close the business.