Payment Processing

arppt01 · 01-12-07, 05:06 AM

I need suggestions on how should one proceed regarding the payment processing once the job is over. As for those who are just starting it out in the service sector it is not good to ask for payment in the middle of the ongoing job but at the same time there remains a risk of getting duped when the job is over. What will be your suggestions to these starters. How to go about getting payments?

Corey Bryant · 01-12-07, 02:37 PM

It depends on how much the job was worth. Usually we asked for 50% down and the remaining 50% when all was done.

Of course, never give everything until you have payment. If the job was over $10,000, we broke it up in thirds.

Copeland · 01-12-07, 03:29 PM

I know at most interviews or discussion of job details most people ask the famous question "Do you have any questions?".If the opportunity has pass you by then if you don't trust the client then you need to ask about payment. I agree, with Corey when he said that he request 50% down or a deposit.

Elizabeth26 · 01-12-07, 09:29 PM

When the customer ask you about how the project coming the you ask him about how the payment will work.

arppt01 · 01-17-07, 10:30 AM

Thanks for your views. I have also followed the safest way as suggested here. It is always better to get clear about payments. I should also add that mostly people pay whenver asked but there are few who unnecessarily holds up and pay as per their time.

Melos · 01-18-07, 08:10 AM

From those I know in service related businesses, they always get 50% up front, and their terms are clearly states on their site. If it includes a large sum of money, you can always engage the law if they do not pay.

JohnR · 01-25-07, 07:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Corey Bryant

It depends on how much the job was worth. Usually we asked for 50% down and the remaining 50% when all was done.

Of course, never give everything until you have payment. If the job was over $10,000, we broke it up in thirds.

Agreed. 50 50 for the most part. That way more then likely you won't get duped but if you do, you have half there money.

Marlon · 01-25-07, 09:03 PM

I don’t know what kind of service you are providing, but I recommend asking for enough to cover any material that is needed. Example, you have a business that is designing flyers, make sure that you get enough upfront to cover the printing, this way you don’t suffer a lost if the customer change his/her mind. Also make sure you have a contract that covers all of this.

I hope I did not go off topic, got burnt once like this.

arppt01 · 01-26-07, 08:14 AM

From this topic there are two important factors coming out. One is to get some upfront so that in case of any eventuality the risk is minimum. The other one is to have some kind of contract in place before the start.