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AIBU?

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Original poster

To think this is unprofessional?

59 replies

PigeonEgg · 04/04/2024 07:48

Recently taken on a new contract, I'm a freelancer. It's a small one, only a few hours a week.

I sent my latest invoice to the client/boss and he replied "Invoice received, I'll pay it ASAP, I'm waiting on a few other payments to come in."

This has shaken my trust in the client, it's unprofessional, why not just say 'Thanks I'll get that paid ASAP."

In case it's relevant, the amount is less than £300.

If he doesn't have an easily accessible pot for payments for such low amounts, it makes me feel uneasy.

OP posts:
Obbydoo · 04/04/2024 08:21

Agree it sounds like he's priming you because he's running late and, if he agreed to the terms formally in writing, then you need to find a way to enforce this. I've had issues like this and learned some regard freelancers as a soft touch and will put you to the bottom of the pile when it comes to paying bills. Follow a really strict invoice chasing routine - regular reminders, activate interest penalties if that's in your contract and then threaten court. You'll probably lose them as a client if you're really strict but unless you are truly desperate for the work, that shouldn't matter.

But, 5 days is really short. I'm also a freelancer and a lot of my clients will not accept anything less than 28 days. Might be worth considering whether it is realistic to expect people to pay that quickly. (This will depend on who your client is - if they are also a one man band, 5 days should be OK but a bigger company with a proper accounting function probably won't).

Original poster
PigeonEgg · 04/04/2024 07:56

Dearg · 04/04/2024 07:52

Presumably you agreed payment terms before starting? If so I would politely remind him of those.
You are not responsible for his cash flow .

Exactly - I don't need to know his cash flow and it sounds like a precursor for a late payment.

OP posts:
shearwater2 · 04/04/2024 07:55

I'd reply to say "Great, look forward to receiving payment by X as agreed," to let them know you are not going to be a soft touch. X being the invoice or other agreed final date for payment.

Original poster
PigeonEgg · 04/04/2024 07:54

My payment policy is to be paid within 5 working days, which he knows and agreed to.

I'm sure he will pay within the 5 working days but it's the whole 'you get paid when I get paid' vibe that gives a red flag.

I'd never say something like that.

OP posts:
daffodilandtulip · 04/04/2024 07:53

I'm a childminder and this drives me mad every month OP. I've never had a month where I haven't had to constantly chase at least one person.

Dearg · 04/04/2024 07:52

Presumably you agreed payment terms before starting? If so I would politely remind him of those.
You are not responsible for his cash flow .

BlueMum16 · 04/04/2024 07:52

What payment terms did you agree?
Maybe have another conversation if you are to continue so it's all every clear a message to remind of agreed terms is easy

MarvellousMidgeMaisel · 04/04/2024 07:51

Nope. You state your payment terms on your invoice and if he doesn’t pay by that date then interest.
You don’t walk out of Sainsbury’s and tell them “I’ll pay you when I get some money in”.

MississippiAF · 04/04/2024 07:49

Yanbu; I wouldn’t do any more work for them.

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