Freelance Payment Red Flags: Getting Paid On Time
The single biggest predictor of whether you'll get paid on time is the payment clause itself.
Payment on Acceptance Traps
Some contracts say you get paid only after the client "accepts" the work, with no deadline for acceptance defined. The client can delay by never saying they're satisfied. I add: "Deliverables are deemed accepted unless rejected in writing with specific reasons within 5 business days."
Net-60 and Net-90 Terms
Standard for enterprises but a cash-flow nightmare. I counter with net-30 plus 1.5% monthly late fee, or split the invoice: 50% net-15, 50% net-45.
No Deposit
A client who won't pay a deposit won't pay on time. Period. I've tested this over years and the correlation is nearly perfect. I ask 50% up front on new relationships, 25% on ongoing. Refusers almost always become payment problems.
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Decode My LeaseFrequently asked questions
Are late fees enforceable?
Yes, when reasonable — typically 1-2% per month. Courts disfavor punitive rates.