Had a client cancel a project without notice, leaving my schedule in disarray and costing me more than just lost time. The hassle of rearranging plans and absorbing the impact made me realize the potential need for a cancellation fee policy.
Yeah cancellations suck. I just roll with it though. Can’t be bothered with fancy fees and stuff.
Absolutely, a cancellation fee policy is essential for protecting your time and income.
I’d suggest setting up a simple contract that outlines your cancellation terms. Maybe charge 50% if they cancel within 48 hours of the job.
Just make sure clients know about it upfront to avoid any surprises or arguments later.
Cancellation fees? Yeah, I’ve been there. After a few too many last-minute bailouts, I had to do something.
Here’s what I’ve found works:
- Keep it simple: 50% fee for cancellations within 48 hours
- Full payment if they ghost on the day of
- Mention it when they book, nothing fancy
I just say something like, ‘Hey, just so you know, I’ve got this cancellation policy. It helps me keep my schedule in check.’
Most clients get it. Some might grumble, but it’s saved my bacon more than once.
It’s not about making extra cash. It’s about:
- Protecting your time
- Keeping your schedule sane
- Weeding out flaky clients
Just make sure it’s in your contract. Nothing worse than trying to enforce something you didn’t write down.
And yeah, be ready to lose a client or two over it. But trust me, the ones who stick around are usually the ones you want to work with anyway.
Look, cancellation fees aren’t optional. They’re a must. I’ve been doing this for years, and here’s what works:
Set a clear policy. 50% fee for cancellations within 48 hours, full payment if they bail on the day. No exceptions.
Put it in your contract and explain it when they book. Most clients get it. If they don’t, they’re not worth the hassle.
This isn’t about making extra cash. It’s about running a tight ship and keeping your schedule solid. You can’t pay bills with empty slots in your calendar.
Stick to your guns on this. It’ll save you headaches and keep the flaky clients in line.
Been there, done that. Cancellation fees are a game-changer for small businesses.
I started with a 25% fee for cancellations within 24 hours. It was enough to make clients think twice, but not so high that it scared them off.
Over time, I tweaked it based on how clients reacted. Now I do 50% for less than 48 hours notice, and full payment if they cancel on the day.
The key is to explain it clearly when they book. I just say, ‘Hey, my time is reserved for you, so I can’t take other jobs. That’s why I have this policy.’ Most people get it.
It’s not about making extra money. It’s about respect for your time and running a stable business. Trust me, it’s worth it for your sanity alone.
I’ve had clients cancel on me too. It sucks. Maybe try a small fee if they cancel last minute. Not too much, just enough to cover your time. Might make them think twice before bailing.