Getting paid on time: a late-payment system for freelancers
Prevention beats chasing
- Take a deposit before starting.
- Put a specific due date on every invoice, not just 'Net 14'.
- Write the late fee and the right to pause work into the contract.
- Invoice on the day of each milestone, not at month-end.
A three-step reminder sequence
Day 1 overdue: a friendly reminder with the invoice re-attached. Day 7–10: a firm notice that names the late fee and the pause clause. Day 21+: a final notice with a date and the next step you'll take. Send them on schedule, not when you feel annoyed.
Calculating the late fee
A simple monthly fee: balance × monthly rate × days late ÷ 30. On a $2,000 invoice at 1.5% per month, 20 days late is $20. Use the free late-fee calculator to check the numbers, and keep the fee within your local legal limit.
Track everything in one place
A tracker that shows days overdue and aging buckets (1–30, 31–60, 60+ days) tells you who to chase today, so you aren't relying on your memory.
FAQ
Can I charge a late fee if it isn't in the contract?
It's much harder to enforce. Add it to your terms and show it on your invoices so it is agreed before work starts.
When should I stop working for a late payer?
If your agreement includes a pause clause, apply it on schedule (for example after 7 days overdue) and tell the client in writing.
Invoice & Client Tracker · $29
Log invoices once and see what's paid, open and overdue, with automatic due dates, late fees, aging and a printable invoice.
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