Mia
Finishing a job, even if it is well done, doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you will get paid. Sometimes, you may find yourself in a situation where you have to chase your clients or customers in order to get paid. This can be very frustrating, especially when you have kept your end of the bargain. If you are a freelancer, own a small business, or work in construction, you probably know that it takes more than just showing up and doing your job. With most full-time jobs, there is a system and an HR department that is responsible for your salary.
However, some jobs, due to their nature, don’t have this kind of structure; you are the one who is responsible for contacting the customers to make sure that you get paid. However, if this is the first time you find yourself in a situation like this, you may feel that you are out of your depth and have no idea how to receive your payments on time. Keep reading for tips on how to make sure that you are paid for your work.
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Learn Everything About the Client
When a client approaches you, it is not a good idea to give them an answer right away. Take your time to do thorough research about the client so you can find out everything about them. There is so much you can learn about a client from a simple Google search; you can find reviews from other freelance workers detailing their experience with them and whether they got paid easily or had to suffer until they got their money, or if they never got paid at all.
You will also find online reviews from consumers that will give you an idea about the company or the customer that is trying to hire you. It is also important to check the company’s website to find out how long they have been in business.
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Hire a Lawyer
Sometimes builders, contractors, suppliers, or construction companies find themselves in an unfortunate situation where they aren’t paid after finishing a job. In this situation, you may have no other option but to hire a lawyer to file a claim against a property to limit what the owner can do with the property until you get paid. If the owner refuses to pay you, you will be given a stake in the property as compensation for the money they owe you.
You should also know that even if the client decides to abandon the project, you should still be paid for the work you have already done. Just so you know, there are different kinds of liens even in the same profession; your lawyer will definitely explain everything to you and advise you on the kind of claim that you should file. You should know that in some cases, there is only a 45 days limit to file a claim, so make sure not to wait long before consulting with a lawyer.
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Sign a Contract
How can you guarantee your rights if you don’t sign a contract? The problem with freelance work is that there are usually no contracts involved, and sometimes a verbal agreement is just not enough. There are also jobs, like construction work, that are usually very complicated. The contract makes everything clear for both parties and makes you feel confident about getting paid. You should include deadlines in the contract and confirm how and when you will get paid. If the other party refuses to sign a contract, know that this is a major red flag.
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Ask for a Down Payment
It is normal for freelancers, contractors, and many other professionals to ask for a down payment before they begin working. It can be an incentive for them and a show of goodwill from the client. Even if you have never asked for a down payment before, you should consider starting to. It can be difficult at first but it will all be worth it eventually. If a client refuses to pay a down payment, this may be concerning. You may lose some clients, but remember that you need this kind of security and there is no harm in establishing some ground rules.
It is important to have security in whatever job you take. However, in some cases, this may not be an option. This is why you have to find ways to guarantee your payment. You can do this by researching your client, taking legal action if necessary, signing a contract, and asking for a down payment. Don’t hesitate to demand your rights; you did a job and you deserve to be compensated for it. Remember you have rights, and the law is on your side.
