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Beginner 12 min
Getting Paid On Time
Stop chasing invoices. Payment terms, deposit strategies, late fees, and the collection sequence that actually works.
“Your client will not pay you faster because you need the money. They'll pay you faster because your system makes it the path of least resistance.”
What you'll learn
Payment termsDeposits & milestonesInvoicingLate fees & collections
Always collect a deposit (30-50%) before starting work. It proves the client is serious and funds your initial effort.
Milestone payments keep cash flow predictable. Tie payments to deliverables, not calendar dates.
Set payment terms clearly: Net 15 or Net 30 from invoice date. Include late fee language (1.5% monthly or $25 flat).
Automate invoicing. Use FreshBooks, Wave, or similar. Manual invoicing is the #1 reason freelancers get paid late.