No matter if you are just starting out, or are a pro with your pet sitting business, you will always have one or two clients who pay you late or not at all.  Here are ten ways you can deal with late paying clients.

1.      Contact – Call the clients as soon as the payment is late.  Do not let weeks go by without letting them know how much they owe, or how they can pay you.

2.     Remind them – People have busy lives, and sometimes they forget.  Give them a friendly call, or post card to remind them again.

3.     Invoice – Sending an invoice will not only help you keep records, but will also let them know how much they owe you, and how to get the payment to you.

4.     Email – Emails are a nice and friendly way to let them know you are still here, and you still need to be paid for your service.

5.     Be clear – When you set up the appointment to watch a pet, be sure to let your clients know how you prefer to be paid, and when you will expect the payment.

6.     Stay professional – Show compassion, but be firm.  Clarify to them that you value their business, but you need to receive payment for the service you provided as defined in the contract.

7.     Late fees – If a long time has gone by and payment still has not been made, be sure to add a late fee.  Most places add twenty five dollars, but the amount is up to you.  Also make a note to not work for these clients again, because they are more hassle then you need.  Be sure to black list them and tell other pet sitters to steer clear of these clients as well.

8.    Lawyer – Hopefully you will not have to take this step, but since you have a business, it’s important to get paid for the work you do.  If you have a lawyer tell him/her the issue, and most places will write you a free letter for you to send to these clients stating legal action will be made if payment is not paid in full by a certain date.  Legal action does not have to be made for your lawyer to do this for you.  It’s more of a scare tactic so the clients know you are serious.

9.     Payment plan – If all else fails, give them a payment plan so they can make payments each week. This will help them and you, because at least you will be getting paid something.

10. Claims – As a last resort you can turn the case over to collections, and go to small claims court. This may end up costing you court fees and time away from other potential clients.  However it will show you are a serious business owner, and prove you will not work without payment no matter what the amount may be.

Dealing with clients who just won’t pay is not fun by any means. If you stay calm and professional, most clients will let you know their situation, and give you a time line as to when they will be able to pay.  Be understanding and keep in touch with them often. Send them emails, phone calls and letters to remind them in a pleasant way. Perhaps you will be lucky enough to be paid right away, and avoid the unnecessary torture.