Had a client claim they never received my invoice - again. This is the third time it’s happened with different clients this year. I’m starting to wonder if it’s a tactic to delay payment.
Anyone else deal with this? I’m considering changing my process, but not sure how to approach it without seeming distrustful.
Happens to me too. I just resend the invoice and move on. Not worth the hassle to make a big deal out of it. Maybe try a different email next time if it keeps happening.
I’ve started using an online invoicing system. It tracks when clients open invoices and lets me send automatic reminders.
For clients who keep ‘losing’ invoices, I now require upfront deposits. No deposit, no work. It weeds out the time-wasters pretty quickly.
If they still claim they didn’t get it, I resend and follow up with a phone call. Hard to ignore a direct conversation.
Yeah, the ‘lost invoice’ thing is a classic. I’ve dealt with it too. Here’s what I do:
Send invoices multiple ways:
I also:
For clients who keep ‘losing’ stuff, I started asking for partial payment upfront. Funny how invoices stop disappearing when there’s money already on the table.
One weird trick that works sometimes - I send invoice reminders on odd days or times. Like Tuesday at 3:17 PM. It catches their eye and they’re more likely to deal with it right away.
Remember, most clients aren’t trying to scam you. They’re just busy and disorganized. But it’s okay to protect yourself too.
Dunno about fancy systems. I just text a picture of the invoice. Nobody loses that.
Been there, done that. It’s annoying but pretty common.
I started using invoice tracking software a couple years ago. It shows when invoices are opened. Surprisingly effective.
When a client says they didn’t get it, I check if it was opened. If it was, I politely mention the date and time it was viewed. Most clients suddenly ‘find’ it.
For repeat offenders, I send a follow-up email a week after the invoice. Just a friendly reminder. Cuts down on the ‘lost invoice’ excuse.
Also, consider sending invoices through a client portal if you have one. Makes it harder to claim they never got it.
Remember, most clients aren’t trying to scam you. But a little CYA never hurts in business.
Sounds like you’re dealing with some slippery clients. Here’s what I do:
I send invoices through a system that shows when they’re opened. Can’t claim they didn’t get it if I see they viewed it Tuesday at 2pm.
For repeat offenders, I send a reminder a week after the invoice goes out. Cuts down on the ‘lost’ excuses.
If it keeps happening, I start requiring deposits before work begins. Amazing how quickly invoices stop getting ‘lost’ when there’s money on the line upfront.
Don’t waste time chasing payments. Set up a system that makes it hard for clients to play games with your money.