Chasing late invoices is the single most demoralizing task of self-employment. Fortunately, 90% of late payments can be prevented entirely before you even write the first line of code or deliver the first draft.
The 50/50 and Milestone Rule
Never start project execution without an upfront non-refundable deposit. For projects under $5,000, require 50% upfront and 50% before final production assets or repository access are handed over.
Exact 3-Stage Follow-Up Sequence
Automate your reminders with polite, frictionless copy: Day 1 after due date (gentle check-in), Day 5 (inquiry regarding AP department schedule), and Day 10 (notice of project suspension until settlement).
Julian Rossi
Independent consultant, remote work strategist, and regular contributor to Freelance Spark.
