To ask how I politely ask for this money?

[Ohpleasenotnow]

I started a small cleaning business a few months ago. I've built a really good group of clients up and pleased with how it is going. However, I had a new customer last week - lovely lady, will be a regular from now on and has asked me to clean again tomorrow, however I have not received a bank transfer payment for last week's clean yet.

When I invoice her for tomorrow's clean, I want to pop a little note in that I haven't received last week's payment yet but how?

I don't want to embarrass her or anything, she is lovely and has probably forgotten. Any advice much appreciated

[Groovee]

I'd send a message saying that until you have been paid for last week that you will be unable to confirm her booking for this week.

[BonnesVacances]

Having been on the receiving end of one of these texts due to genuinely forgetting to pay, and as it's the first time, I would keep it light and informal.

Say "just a reminder to pay for last week's cleaning before I come tomorrow. Can you let me know when you've sorted it. Thanks." It's then clear that you want paying before you intend to clean for her again.

[SunshineAngel]

I work freelance, and also have clients who use my services on a weekly basis. Unless I know them well, and there's a good reason they haven't paid, I will not submit further work until they're up to date with invoices. It's absolutely fair, and they can't comment, as it's they who haven't paid.

[CandyLeBonBon]

Unless payment terms have been specified then net 30 is standard. It's always a good idea to clarify these things. Even if in an email or text so you have something in writing. A contract doesn't have to be written but unless payment terms are agreed the default will take precedence.

Sounds like you didn't specify with her and she didn't ask.

Send a polite message but don't go in all guns blazing stating breach of contract because it's not.

[SunshineAngel]

Just another note - you say you started your business recently. One thing I've learned is not to let people take liberties. It's just too easy to get away with paying late, or ask if you can just do this or just do that, with no extra payment. I used to be an absolute soft touch for this, but I stand up for myself a lot more now.. you just have to.

[SidmouthDad]

You really need to nip this in the bud. Before you know it she'll be four weeks behind then she'll start saying she thought she had paid etc. etc.
Like everyone else says, this is a business, not a community service, and that should not be forgotten.

[Spingtrolls]

Could understand if op had cleaned yesterday, but last week? Nah she hasn't forgotten. You don't suddenly think oh the cleaning fairies have appeared lol.

[Motoko]

@Ohpleasenotnow have you contacted her yet?

[CandyLeBonBon]

It's very easy to forget. My cleaner has an automated reminder after 24hours because invariably I'll get in, having not seen her, get overwhelmed with life and after school shite/homework dinner etc so we have system whereby if I haven't whacked it over within 24 hours I get a reminder text.

This client could be swerving it or she could just assume it's payable in 30 days via a monthly invoice (my lawnmower guy does this) or she could be a total CF. At the end of the day the op will know which one this client is as soon as she texts.

[SweetMarmalade]

As it’s the first time I’d send a text something like:-

Hi non payment lady

Just checking through last weeks accounts and notice that I’m still outstanding invoice 4533, could you confirm whether you have sent payment?

[Berthatydfil]

Hi non payer,
I’m very pleased you were happy with my services on Yday last week and have requested I visit again on Xday.
I have checked my accounts and I don’t seem to see your payment as having cleared.
Regrettably I’m unable to confirm your request for the visit on Xday until this payment is received for the prior clean. My bank details are XYZ or I will accept cash at the start of the visit.
Apologies if you have already paid, please provide details so I can ask my bank to trace it.

[Bobthefishermanswife]

I'd just put both cleans on the invoice and 'overdue' next to last weeks.

[Isithometimeyet0987]

I run a business and there’s a section on my invoices that says missed payments that I put in how much is owed and the surcharge if it applies. I started out like you, gave people more chances that enough to pay and some will never pay you, so now I always add on the surcharge unless some agreement has been made with the customers as in extenuating circumstances I will work with clients but usually it’s surchage straight away. All this is in my T&Cs that every clients gets their own copy of and can be found on my website and when they fill in the registration form agree to them. If it gets past a certain amount of time also started in the T&Cs then that clients child can no longer attend class until all outstanding bills are cleared. People taking advantage and always saying they’ll pay and acting lovely to your ace but still not paying g has made me realise if I want my business to work I sometimes have to put my foot down. Sorry if that sounds ruthless but my business runs a lot smoother with this approach.

[MsTSwift]

Bitch where’s my money? Maybe not but hey. Fellow small business owner - good luck op

[PicaK]

Schools just gone back. It's easier to forget things. I did this. I got a nice text. I was mortified. I apologised profusely, rushed round with the cash, fined myself £10 and also paid in advance for the following visit so it never happens again. I'd send the reminder but word it nicely on the moneys not in my bank. Can I have both payments tomorrow line.

[Livedandlearned]

I used to run a small cleaning business and had one customer that did this, after months of paying with no issue. Proper CF.

[WorriedSENMum]

I hate it when OP posts & doesn't return!

[NC4Now]

I’d ask her to set up a standing order. Saves embarrassment all round.