I’ve been freelancing for a while now, and it’s frustrating to see clients disappear when it’s time to pay. Last quarter, I lost nearly three grand to non-responsive clients.
I can’t help but think I might need to rethink my payment terms and agreements.
Had this problem too. Now I just ask for payment when the job is done, before I leave.
Set up late fees in your contracts right from the start. Most clients pay faster when they know delays cost them extra money.
I also ask for references from new clients now. If they can’t provide any, that’s usually a red flag. Takes two minutes to check but saves weeks of chasing payments later.
Consider using payment platforms that let you send automatic reminders. Less work for you and keeps the pressure on without being pushy.
Get half upfront before starting any work. It’s non-negotiable. The rest is due before final delivery or keep what you’ve done.
Stop working with clients who delay small payments. They’ll do this on bigger jobs too. I learned this the hard way chasing deadbeats for months.
Use a simple contract stating payment is due in 15 days, not 30. Most good clients pay right away.