Provide a Service, Make a Profit
By Michael StoneA young businessman called. He was in a state of shock after checking his books over the weekend and found over $11,000 in receivables, much of it over 30 days.
Why You Need a Well-Written Contract
By Michael StoneA client decided to change the rules of their contract. She decided not to pay the full amount or on time as the contract specified.
Asking for a Lien Release Prior to Payment
By Michael StoneA specialty contractor said, "A general contractor called and asked me to send a lien release. If I do that, he will send a check for what he owes me."
Dishonest Clients; Collecting the Final Payment
By Michael StoneHow do you deal with a dishonest client? I recently corresponded with a contractor concerning this issue.
Sending Invoices for Construction or Handyman Work
By Michael StoneInvoicing is one way clients delay paying. "Thanks for doing that work, send me an invoice, okay?" Why do contractors agree? Maybe they believe everyone does it.
Payment Schedules on Small Jobs
By Michael StoneIt’s important to manage the payment schedule on your jobs, but not all jobs are the same.
Getting Paid
By Michael StoneIf the payment schedule is adjusted after you’ve started a job and they aren’t willing to pay what’s owed, file liens. You must protect your right to be paid.
Payment Methods
By Michael StoneI don’t think writing a check is old fashioned, but there are so many advantages to using a credit or debit card that it’s become the preferred payment method for many.
Business or Charity?
By Michael StoneIf you’re a business owner and take on a project out of the goodness of your heart, recognize you might not get paid and will be funding the project.
Contracts Matter; Collecting Final Payment
By Michael StoneWhen you provide a dishonest client a cost breakdown of their job, things can go wrong.
Changing the Terms of the Contract
By Michael StoneWhy do clients enter a contract and then think they can unilaterally change the terms?
Renegotiating the Price
By Michael StoneHow should you respond when a client wants to change the price AFTER the job has started?