I can share a couple tips I found useful:
Wait patiently for payment to show up within the time period you agreed upon before accepting the project. If you are ansy, call and make sure the invoice was received.
Customers who feel trusted are more likely to act trustworthy.
Rule # 1, Never lose your temper, it will only make a deadbeat more inclined to pay you back by holding your money. Keep it professional and don't jump to conclusions.
It is possible your customer may be having the same problem collecting money owed him. I'm not saying that is a valid excuse but it may take him a little extra time to find the funds.
Rule #2, Communication, communication communication, is the key to getting paid. Call, go to the business, job or home. Whatever it takes to start dialogue. Negotiate a payment plan if that is what it takes.
Rule #3, always file pre-lien notices when required, to protect your lien rights.
Rule#4,Hone your instincts and listen to them as you go.
(Anyone for fun want to submit a top ten on how to spot a deadbeat?)
Rule #5, Stay on it. The old addage "The squeaky wheel gets the grease" applies here.
After your efforts are unsucessful you can always go to Small Claims Court. If you have all your ducks in a row it is usually easy to get a judgement. That does not mean you will get paid though.
If a large sum of money is owed and you have not retained lien rights, hiring a lawyer will usually drain large parts of large sums. At that point, you will gain both advanced and enhanced intinct honing and communication skills more rapidly.
Good luck and keep us posted on your progress OK
