Finished a project weeks ago and still no payment. The client keeps saying it’s “processing,” but they usually pay within days.
I can’t help but think I should’ve set clearer payment terms initially. This delay is really hitting my cash flow and draining my energy.
Stop work on anything else for them right now. Send an email asking for a specific payment date, not just “processing.” If they don’t give you a real date within 48 hours, start charging late fees if your contract allows it.
For future jobs, ask for 50% upfront and the rest on delivery. Cash flow problems disappear when you get paid before you deliver the work.
Clear payment terms help avoid these issues. Might be time to follow up firmly.
Send one more email with a clear deadline for payment, like 7 days. After that, you might need to consider small claims court or a collection agency.
For next time, try asking for payment in stages. I usually do 25 percent to start, 50 percent halfway through, and 25 percent when finished. Makes these situations way less painful when you’re not waiting for the full amount.