Client won't pay? Here is exactly what to do (Step-by-Step)
Panic. Anger. Frustration. We've all been there. But getting emotional won't get you paid. Here is the professional roadmap to recovering your money.
Step 1: Stop Working immediately
This is the hardest but most important step. If a client is late on a payment, **do not** deliver any more work.
Script:
"Hi [Name], I've paused work on Phase 2 pending payment of Invoice #1024. As soon as that is cleared up, I'll jump right back in!"Step 2: The "CEO" Email
Sometimes clients ignore emails from "the freelancer". If you have a generic support address (like `billing@yourdomain.com`), send a formal notice from there. It signals that this is now a "finance department" issue, not a personal favor.
Step 3: Pick up the phone
Emails are easy to ignore. Phone calls are not.
Call them. Be polite. "Hi, I just wanted to check if you received the invoice? I haven't seen the payment come through yet."
Often, they will be embarrassed and pay immediately.
Step 4: The Formal Demand Letter
If 30 days have passed and they are ghosting you, send a formal demand letter. Mention that you will be handing this over to a collections agency or small claims court if not paid by [Date].
Subject: FINAL NOTICE: Overdue Invoice #1024
This is a formal notice that invoice #1024 is now 30 days overdue.
Please remit payment of $500 by [Date + 7 days].
If payment is not received by this date, we will be forced to escalate this matter to a third-party collections agency, which may impact your credit rating.
How to prevent this next time?
The best way to deal with non-paying clients is to avoid them in the first place.
- Always get a deposit: 50% upfront. No exceptions.
- Use a contract: Clearly state late fees.
- Automate your reminders: Don't rely on your memory.
Let Followio be your "Bad Cop"
Followio sends automated reminders so you don't have to. It prevents "accidental" late payments by keeping you top-of-mind.