Lost In The Words

I think if you were told that payment was coming in the next couple of days and you have gotten no reply from the client, then it is time to go to the next step. Don't wait. It's been a month or soon will be. Give them a "If payment is not received by X date, then I will do XX" and actually do it. The irreverent freelancer gave me this tip and it helped with one client and you know how I took care of the other one!

I really have to agree. Once the client doesn't uphold the contract, something needs to be done. I don't see any reason why giving them any grace period is necessary - especially when they gave you the terms of the agreement by stating that they would be paying you on such and such day.

Hmmm Invoicing usually comes with written terms such as net 15 or net 30. I personally only send out checks and payments once a month (with the exception of odesk), so if i used your services i would have negotiated terms ahead of time ;)

If i was in your position I would wait 15 days send a polite reminder "past due" invoice and let them know interest will occur on any invoices past 30 days.

:)

I too would send reminders at the 30- and 60-day marks. My rule of thumb is no more than 90 days, but if you clearly outlined shorter terms, I'd say anything beyond 60 days is fair game.

Thanks everyone!

I did finally receive partial payment and their reason for being so behind. It seemed legit enough, so hopefully I will see the rest before long and won't get that panicky feeling again.

With the seeming recent rash of clients stiffing people, I was really starting to get upset.