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Subject:Re: Client won't pay From:"Kim L. Shaw" <103205 -dot- 402 -at- COMPUSERVE -dot- COM> Date:Tue, 22 Oct 1996 11:52:08 EDT
Regarding the nonpaying client...depending on the amount of $$ involved, you
_may_ find it worthwhile to hire an attorney to write a demand letter. A
consultant colleague of mine has an attorney who does this for $50-$100, and in
most cases his letters have scared the clients into coughing up the money. You
can also try a series of collection calls, i.e., bug them until they pay you.
If at all possible, don't make these calls yourself. Have a friend or associate
(posing as your account manager) do the calling.
FWIW, my company does two things to try to prevent nonpayment:
1. Written, signed letter of agreement that contains a nonpayment clause (we
reserve the right to stop project work if payment is delayed, etc.).
2. Partial payment invoiced on project approval with terms of net 15 days.
This gives us the option to stop working early on if the client shows signs of
not paying.
Kim Shaw
Words & Graphics Inc.
103205 -dot- 402 -at- compuserve -dot- com
