Every freelancer doesn’t get paid at point or another at some point during their career. This is just a simple inevitable fact that freelancers face, some clients won’t pay- and didn’t intent on paying when the project started. Freelancers must learn to protect themselves from nonpaying clients since an important part of freelancing is getting paid for the work that you do.
Get Money Down
Many freelancers simply ask for a deposit to protect themselves. This deposit can be any amount you are comfortable with from 20% to the full price of the project. If you ask for a deposit it is important to clearly communicate with clients your refund policy should the project be cancelled before it is completed.
Many freelancers worry that clients won’t be willing to pay a deposit when they are just starting out. This generally isn’t true. Most legitimate clients are more than willing to pay a deposit, especially if you clearly communicate the project objectives, payment schedule and similar requirements. With a new client, it can work well to request a smaller deposit and a larger advance payment after some work has been delivered. Even if you have worked with a client in the past, it is still wise to get some sort of a deposit to protect yourself.
Do Your Research
The Better Business Bureau and similar companies can be a great resource for freelancers. It can be helpful to check out large clients and their histories before starting a project. Similarly, you should check out all freelance brokerage companies before agreeing to do any work where the payment will be processed through them. This way you will know if there have been any complaints or problems in advance.
Communicate
More often than not, nonpayment can be avoided if clear communication exists. Talk to clients in detail before the project. Find out their exact wants and needs. Clearly explain payment expectations, payment deadlines and similar considerations. When someone hasn’t paid, address the concern. There is nothing wrong with sending a client an email explaining that you have delivered work and haven’t heard from them. Tell them that you are just checking in to make sure they are happy with the product they have received. Ask about your payment if necessary.
Stick to Your Word
Remember that to protect yourself, you need to stick to your word. If you have stated that a payment is required before you start work, wait for the payment. Don’t bend rules or assume that clients will pay later. Don’t work if you aren’t getting paid or if payments are late.
Clients that won’t pay are unfortunately a part of being a freelancer. However, by taking these precautions you can limit your losses and avoid fraudulent freelance work sources.
Places To Find Work For All Types of Freelancers
Elance – They have over 30,000 jobs posted. They also cover many different categories, almost any type of freelancer can find work here.
oDesk – With almost any set of skills you have, you should be able to find freelance work here. They have a wide variety of categories. This is a heavily posted website.
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