As a freelancer, one of the most frustrating aspects of the job can be dealing with late or non-payment for your hard work. It can be disheartening to spend weeks or even months crafting an article, only to have to fight tooth and nail to receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. In this updated tip sheet, we have gathered advice from fellow freelancers, consulted online resources, and even sought the expertise of a media lawyer to provide you with actionable steps to ensure you get paid on time.
First and foremost, it’s crucial for freelancers to understand that nonpayment is simply unacceptable. Once you have completed the work, it is illegal for clients to withhold payment. Organizations such as The Freelancers Union and The Freelancer have written extensively on this topic and offer valuable resources for freelancers. Additionally, if you are based in New York City, the Freelance Isn’t Free Act may provide you with legal recourse in case of nonpayment.
Since the enactment of the Freelance Isn’t Free Act in New York City in 2017, several other cities and states have followed suit to protect freelancers from nonpayment. Cities like Seattle, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Columbus, and states like Illinois have passed laws to safeguard the rights of freelance workers.
When it comes to ensuring timely payment, there are several proactive steps freelancers can take. Here are some tips for making payment clear and easy:
Discuss payment terms at the start: It’s essential to clarify payment terms with your client upfront. If you are working with a new editor, make sure to ask about payment terms and get the contact information of the person responsible for payment.
Sign a contract: Always sign a contract that outlines work expectations, payment terms, and other crucial details. Make sure to establish when payment is due and under what circumstances.
Update vendor forms: If you have changed addresses recently, ensure that your vendor forms are updated to avoid any delays in payment.
Set up direct deposit: Request direct deposit payment to expedite the payment process and track invoices efficiently.
Invoice immediately and professionally: Send out your invoice promptly after completing the work. Consider using invoice software to streamline the process.
Ask for a downpayment: For larger assignments, negotiate a downpayment to secure some funds upfront.
In case you encounter late or non-payments, here are some tips for dealing with the situation:
Check in with editors and accounting: Reach out to the relevant parties to inquire about the status of your payment.
Put it in writing: Consider submitting updated invoices with late fees or sending demand letters to assert your rights.
Small claims court: If all else fails, small claims court can be a viable option to pursue payment.
File a complaint: Take advantage of local laws protecting freelance workers and report non-payment to the appropriate authorities.
Walk away: If efforts to secure payment prove futile, consider cutting ties with the client and moving on.
Farm it out: Consider hiring a virtual assistant to help with invoicing and tracking payments to alleviate some of the burden.
In conclusion, getting paid on time as a freelancer requires proactive communication, clear agreements, and a willingness to assert your rights when necessary. By following these tips and taking appropriate action, you can ensure that your hard work is duly compensated and protect yourself from the frustrations of late or non-payment.
