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What to do when a customer won't pay an invoice
When a customer won't pay an invoice, find out why first, then put it in writing, offer a way to pay, set a final date, and only then look at small claims. Most unpaid invoices stop at step one or two.
What to do, in order
- Call them. Ask if there's a problem with the work or the bill. Sometimes it's a fair question, and you can fix it.
- Put it in writing. Send the invoice again with the amount, the date of the work and what was agreed.
- Make paying easy. Include a pay link, and offer two or three smaller payments if money's the problem.
- Set a final date. Say what the date is and what happens after it. Then do what you said.
- Decide if it's worth pursuing. If it's worth pursuing, small claims court is built for this, and limits and steps vary by state. Most states give contractors mechanics lien rights on the property, with strict deadlines and sometimes a notice you had to send early on, so speak to a lawyer soon if you might use one.
Keep your records
- The accepted estimate.
- Photos of the finished work.
- Every message about the job and the payment.
- The invoice and every reminder.
Stop it happening next time
Agree the price in writing, take a deposit on bigger jobs, and send the invoice before you leave so they can pay on the spot. Knockround keeps the accepted estimate, the invoice and the list of who owes you in one place.
This is general information and not legal advice.
Questions
How long should I wait before taking it further?
Follow your written final date. Don't leave it for months: lien and court deadlines can run out.
Can I charge interest on a late invoice?
Only if it's in what the customer agreed to and it's allowed where you work. Put your terms on the estimate from the start.
Try it on tomorrow’s work
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