asked
When a client does not pay?
I did some work for a company just about 90 days ago. This client is located out of State from where I am, and the end result is I have not been paid for my services up to this point. The invoice is not for a lot of money, but really I am to the point where I have cancelled an event that I was suppsoed to be at one night, stayed up all night and even cancelled scheduled work for the next day. I do have an agreement with the client, but chasing down leagally the payment really does not make it worth while. I have sent a number of emails, and the documents that they have requested that I submit, but I am not seeing anything from the on-line retailer. My question is, what ideads do you have or what actions might I take so that I don't have to take this to court? Do I look at a collections company that could assist me? I would love to release the company name on the web, but I know that would only bring attention to myself. Thanks in Advanced, Chris Shaw
Just to drop a quick update to wrap this up. I got lucky and did not need to move to the next step, without anyone saying anything the check showed up in the mail box. Thanks for the discussion.
Thanks for the feedback. To just add a little bit of additional information. I have been sending emails and trying to communcate with the POC, and I have just not been getting any response back at all. About 21 days ago I called, his cell number and he picked up the phone. He promised that he was going to pay the invoice, and that he would assist me with the situation. However, that lasted a couple emails, and then this week he has decieded that he does not want to respond any longer. You guys have passed along some great advice. Thanks
OK, so the next thing I would do is clearly state that he needs to make payment/part payment with plans for remainder or he will next hear formally from a recovery agent or the small claims court. good luck.
Talk to them. Find out why they say they haven't paid, and then go back to them with an appropriate response, eg those at: or There are, I'm sure, some discussions on this at - and if not, there are people there who, I'm sure [ed - all this sureness!], will be able to offer advice from their own experience. You also might want to check what your contract with the company says about late payment, and if there are any statutory penalties you can apply for late payment.
No, revealing a name in a situation like this is not a good move. Keep it between you and them unless it goes to a 3rd party such as a collection agency or court. Not a forum post. As Thomas says, speak to them. They may be unhappy with the work, they may be struggling for $$$, they may be trying to get out of paying. Until you speak to them you dont know how to react and you wont react the same way for all scenarios... if its 1 then you may choose to make remedial changes to make them happy and then the pay, or you say its all good - delivered as requested - and they have to pay. if its 2 then you may decide to enter in to some part/staged payment agreement. You arent made of money so you need something and they have the goods so you need the money. However you may be able to help them in the short term. if its 3 then you need to tell them that you will be seeking professional advice and they should expect to hear from your representative. Keep dialog going as long as you can. act fairly and dont gloat when it is resolved.
