Been burned by clients not paying lately. Starting to realize my contracts might be the weak link. Anyone else revamp their service agreements to combat this? Curious about what clauses or language you’ve found most effective in getting invoices paid on time.
I’ve tweaked my contracts over time to avoid payment headaches.
Key things that work for me:
Upfront deposit. Always. No exceptions.
Clear payment schedule with milestones.
Late fees after 7 days. It’s amazing how quickly clients pay when they know the clock is ticking.
I also send a friendly reminder a few days before the invoice is due. Keeps everyone on track.
I hear you on getting burned. Been there too many times.
My contracts evolved through trial and error. Now I’ve got a few key things that really help:
Detailed payment schedule. I break big projects into milestones with payments due at each one. Keeps cash flowing and shows progress.
Work stoppage clause. If they’re late on a payment, work stops until they catch up. No exceptions.
Late fees. I charge 2% interest per month on overdue invoices. It adds up fast, so clients usually pay on time.
I also started using an online invoicing system. It sends automatic reminders and lets clients pay right from the invoice. Way fewer excuses about ‘lost in the mail’ now.
One last thing - I always chat with new clients about the contract terms before we start. Makes sure we’re on the same page from day one.
Contracts aren’t rocket science. Keep 'em simple, but cover your bases.
I always require a deposit upfront. 50% for new clients, 30% for regulars. That weeds out the tire-kickers.
Payment terms are crystal clear. Due within 14 days, 2% interest per month after that. No wiggle room.
Work stoppage clause is key. They don’t pay, work stops. Period.
I break big jobs into milestones with payments along the way. Keeps cash flowing and shows progress.
One more thing: I always go over the contract with clients before we start. Makes sure we’re on the same page from the get-go. Saves a lot of hassle down the road.
Contracts? I just write stuff down on paper.
Never really thought about it much before now.
I keep it basic. Just a simple contract with payment due dates and late fees. No fancy stuff. And I always get a deposit before starting work. Saves a lot of headaches later on.
I keep my contracts simple but specific. Clear payment terms, late fees, and work stoppage clauses.
No fancy legal jargon needed. Just spell out exactly when payment is due and what happens if they don’t pay.
I also include a kill fee if they cancel mid-project. Helps weed out flaky clients.
Been there, done that. Unpaid invoices are the worst.
After a few bad experiences, I beefed up my contracts. Now I require a 50% deposit upfront for new clients. That way, I’m not left high and dry if they ghost me.
I also added a clause about interest on late payments. It’s 1.5% per month after 30 days. Most clients don’t want to pay extra, so it motivates them to pay on time.
One thing that’s helped a ton: I send a reminder email 5 days before the invoice is due. It’s friendly but firm. Cuts down on the ‘I forgot’ excuses.
Remember, a contract is only as good as your willingness to enforce it. Don’t be afraid to stop work if a client isn’t holding up their end of the deal.
Contracts are a lifesaver, especially when you’ve been burned before.
Here’s what’s worked for me:
- Clear milestones and payment schedule
- Kill fee for cancellations
- Work stoppage if payments are late
I also started using an online contract tool. It lets clients sign digitally and sends automatic reminders. Way fewer ‘I forgot’ excuses now.
One thing that’s made a huge difference: I have a quick call with new clients to go over the contract terms. It’s amazing how many potential issues you can catch early this way.
Remember, the best contract is one you’re willing to enforce. Don’t be afraid to pause work if a client isn’t holding up their end. It’s your business - protect it.