How to Get Clients to Pay on Time

Late payments can be a huge headache for freelancers. You've completed your project, delivered top-notch work, and then the waiting game begins. Chasing down clients for payments not only disrupts your workflow but also affects your ability to manage your finances, pay for subscriptions, and plan for future projects. 

Freelancers rely on timely payments for their upkeep, health, taxes, and even their professional growth. So, how do you ensure you get paid on time, every time?

Common Reasons Why Clients Delay Payments

Lack of a Clear Contract:

One of the primary reasons clients delay payments is the absence of a well-defined contract. A contract should clearly outline the payment terms, deadlines, and consequences for late payments. If these details are vague or non-existent, clients might feel less urgency to pay on time. Always ensure that your contract is thorough and agreed upon by both parties before starting any project.

Poor Communication of Payment Terms:

Sometimes, freelancers rush through the initial stages of client engagement without discussing payment terms in detail. It’s important to have an upfront conversation about when and how you expect to be paid. This helps set expectations and prevents misunderstandings down the line.

Unprofessional or Incomplete Invoices:

An invoice is not just a bill; it’s a professional document that should detail the work done, the amount due, and the payment deadline. If your invoice is unclear or incomplete, clients may delay payment simply because they don’t fully understand what they’re paying for. This is where a professional invoicing tool like Geegpay comes in handy.

How Geegpay Invoicing Can Solve Your Late Payment Problems

1. Create Professional, Detailed Invoices: Geegpay allows you to create sleek, professional invoices that include all the necessary details: the work completed, the payment amount, and due dates. Your Geegpay bank account details are also included ensuring that the client knows exactly how and where to send the payment.

2. Automate Payment Reminders: One of the standout features of Geegpay invoicing is the ability to automate payment reminders. Once you’ve sent an invoice through the Geegpay app, your client will receive reminders as the payment deadline approaches. This means you no longer have to waste time and energy chasing down clients for payments—Geegpay does it for you.

3. Set Up Recurring Payments: For freelancers who have ongoing projects or clients on retainer, Geegpay’s invoicing feature allows you to set up recurring payments. This automation ensures that your clients are billed at regular intervals, making it easier for you to manage your cash flow and plan your finances.

4. Multi-Currency Bank Accounts: Another challenge freelancers face, especially when working with international clients, is dealing with different currencies. Geegpay solves this problem by providing you with USD, EUR, GBP, and local currency bank accounts. When you create an invoice in a specific currency, you can attach the relevant Geegpay bank account. This way, your client can pay you in their currency, and the funds will reflect directly in your corresponding Geegpay account, saving you the hassle of currency conversion and potential delays.

5. Enhance Your Professionalism: Using Geegpay’s invoicing feature not only streamlines your payment process but also elevates your professionalism. A well-organised invoice system shows your clients that you take your work—and your payments—seriously, making them more likely to pay on time.

Tips for Ensuring On-Time Payments

1. Choose Your Clients Wisely:

Some clients have a reputation for delaying payments or even skipping out on them altogether. It’s essential to do your due diligence before taking on a project. Research potential clients, ask for references, and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it might be better to pass on the opportunity.

2. Address Payment Issues Promptly:

If a payment is late, address the issue immediately. Send a polite reminder, referencing the payment terms outlined in your contract. If the client continues to delay, consider escalating the matter with more formal communication. Geegpay’s automated reminders can help you stay on top of these situations without having to send emails manually.

3. Use Clear, Professional Invoices:

As mentioned earlier, the quality of your invoice can directly impact when and if you get paid. Use Geegpay to create clear, detailed invoices that leave no room for confusion.

How to Create an Invoice on Geegpay

1. Log into the Geegpay App
2. Select Invoice from the dashboard and tap ‘Create New’
3. Click the ‘Add a new customer’ button
4. Fill in the customer details and tap ‘Next’
5. Select the currency you’re getting paid, add the due date, and tap ‘Next’
6. Add your product or service details and tap continue
7. Review to ensure all details are correct
8. Tap ‘Send Now’ or use the scheduling button to schedule the delivery of the invoice

Geegpay allows you to track the status of your invoices, so you know exactly when a payment is made. If a payment is overdue, Geegpay’s reminders will automatically kick in, prompting the client to pay up.

Download the Geegpay app today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your payments are handled professionally and efficiently.