Most polite and efficient way to chase late payment.

[gnfencer]

I've 14 days with the expectation of taking 30 days most of my customers are prompt, and repeat customers prompt payers receive prompt attention, I always say.

I had a guy due me a four figure sum once went round past and he said he wasn't fit to pay it all so I took payment on the drip, I'm happy to do that as I may need the same myself someday,

[Fredward]

There is always the option of taking a deposit on larger jobs or if you think the client may difficult.

[deezyboy]

was reading this thread for advice before sending another, slightly more snotty Email to a late payer... decided I better actually check before I did it whether he has decided to pay me nearly 3 months after completing the job... looked online and the money went in yesterday! Its my first customer who has been a joke to deal with, and have learnt my lesson to simply walk away from these types next time!

[Robert_S]

you could always try this technique

 

[combined tree services]

A letter from these guys usually does the trick :-)

 

Debt collection process - Letter Before Action & Late Payment demand | The Thomas Higgins Partnership

[Rye Oil Ltd]

I would think it takes a brave person to be late paying a Tree surgeon. Baring in mind your access to chainsaws, axes etc.

[WeFixIt]

Sending a statement which you can clearly state overdue is sometime a little more less offensive than resending the same invoice with the latter on it! You can even add interest rates ect at the bottom for late payment

A statement will come across more efficient and professional than the same invoice with added red text!

And thus (in some cases but of course not all) look more realistic that further action will likely follow and payment now would be more beneficial for the customers point of view ..

[simonm]

I have a lad who has blocked my number and is refusing to answer numerous calls, emails, texts! we completed the work on Monday and have not heared a thing! my payment terms are 7 days, then its formal letter time, after that solicitors letter then small claims! this is the first time this has happened to us, i know its only a week but he has no intention of paying what is owed! after a call to a solicitor i now know i have options out there. Some people are complete morons!

[john k]

A letter from these guys usually does the trick :-)

 

Debt collection process - Letter Before Action & Late Payment demand | The Thomas Higgins Partnership

 

That looks like very good value for an intimidating solicitor's letter. Thanks for the link

 

I agree that invoicing once a month isn't a good way to protect your cash flow. Get the invoices in straight away, you could even set things up so you email the invoice straight from your phone at the end of the job.

Edited December 5, 2014 by john k

[Gray git]

Bookmarked that for future reference, thanks.