How to Get Paid as a Freelancer When a Client Does not Pay
How to Get Paid as a Freelancer When a Client Does not Pay
Freelancing offers freedom and flexibility, but it also comes with risks, like chasing down unpaid invoices. Few things are more frustrating than completing a project and then being left unattended by a client. If you are in this situation, do not panic. There are practical steps you can take to protect yourself and receive compensation.
1. Revisit Your Contract
Start by revisiting your agreement. A robust freelance contract should clearly outline your payment terms, due dates, late fees, and the legal remedies available in the event of non-payment. If you do not have a written contract, you may still be protected by email correspondence or messages that show the scope of work and the agreed payment. This step should provide you with a sense of security and a clear path forward.
2. Follow Up Professionally
Sometimes a missed payment is simply an oversight. Send a polite but firm follow-up email. Reiterate the work delivered, the agreed amount, and the due date. Attach the original invoice again. If there is no response, follow up once or twice more over a few days. This proactive approach should empower you and show the client that you are serious about receiving your payment.
3. Implement Late Fees
If your contract includes late payment penalties, remind the client about them. This added pressure might encourage faster payment. Even if you did not include fees initially, you can inform the client that further delays may lead to additional consequences (like collection action). This step should make you feel respected and uphold the fairness of the agreement.
4. Offer a Payment Plan
If your client claims financial hardship, consider offering a short-term payment plan. It is not ideal, but receiving something is better than nothing, and it helps keep the relationship civil.
5. Use Invoicing and Collection Tools
Platforms like PayPal, QuickBooks, or FreshBooks allow you to send professional invoices and automate reminders. For more challenging cases, consider using a debt collection agency or seeking legal services, such as those available through Small Claims Court or freelance-friendly legal platforms like Bonsai or AND.CO.
6. Go Public (Carefully)
As a last resort, you can leave reviews or post about the experience in freelance forums or on LinkedIn, but stay factual. Do not be defamatory. Sometimes, the fear of public backlash is enough to prompt payment.
7. Learn and Protect Yourself Next Time
Use the experience to improve your process. Always use a contract. Take deposits upfront—typically 25–50% of the total amount. Set milestones and do not hand over the final work until full payment has cleared.