I had this exact problem three years ago. Lost $3,800 to two clients who just disappeared. Really hurt at the time.
What changed everything for me was switching to milestone payments instead of the usual deposit plus final payment. I break projects into 3-4 chunks and get paid before moving to the next phase.
For your $2,400 situation, try calling instead of emailing. I know it’s awkward but I got payments from two “vanished” clients just by picking up the phone. Sometimes their email is buried or they’re avoiding written replies.
Also started using contracts that let me charge for collection costs. Never had to use it but clients take it more seriously when they see that clause.
The milestone thing really works though. Smaller amounts are easier for clients to pay and you’re never too deep if someone bails.
Stop all work the minute payment goes past due. That $2,400 client knows exactly what they’re doing. Send one final invoice marked FINAL NOTICE with a hard deadline, then move straight to collections or small claims if they ignore it. The key is never getting that deep again. I invoice weekly now on bigger jobs instead of waiting until the end. Keeps the amounts smaller and catches problems early before you’re out thousands.
That’s rough. Six weeks for $2,400 would stress me out too.
Here’s what worked for me after getting burned a few times:
Payment terms that actually stick:
50% upfront before any work starts
Net 15 days (not 30)
Late fees spelled out clearly
Kill switch clause if payment is 10+ days late
During the project:
Send progress updates with remaining balance reminders
Don’t deliver final files until full payment
Use cloud storage you control, not email attachments
For your current situation:
Send a firm but professional final notice
Give them 7 days to respond
After that, consider small claims court for the $2,400
I learned the hard way that being too nice about payment just attracts clients who take advantage. The good clients actually respect clear boundaries and pay on time.