It’s one of the most frustrating (and unfortunately common) nightmares for freelance writers: You’ve done the work, delivered it on time, and now the client has vanished. No response. No money. No respect.
You didn’t sign up to be a debt collector—you signed up to write. So what happens now?
Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide for what to do when a freelance client refuses to pay.
Step 1: Send a Firm, Professional Reminder
Start with a polite but direct email. Assume good intent—maybe they just forgot, or their accounting is slow.
Example:
Hi [Client], just checking in on the invoice I sent on [date]. It was due on [due date]. Please confirm when I can expect payment. Thank you!
Still nothing? Time to get a little louder.
Step 2: Follow Up With a Clear Deadline
If they haven’t responded within a week, send a follow-up with a specific payment deadline and a note about consequences.
Example:
Hi [Client], I still haven’t received payment for [project]. Please note that if payment isn’t received by [date], I’ll have to pursue late fees and further action. Let me know if there’s an issue—we can work it out.
Sometimes this lights a fire. If not, don’t back down.
Step 3: Charge Late Fees (If in Your Contract)
Did you include a late fee clause in your contract? Good. Now’s the time to enforce it. Send a revised invoice reflecting the late fee.
If you didn’t include one? Add it to every future contract. (A typical fee is 1.5% interest per month past due.)
Step 4: Go Public—With Caution
If they continue to ghost you, consider warning other freelancers. Sites like:
Writers Beware Freelance Writer’s Den (Client Hall of Shame) Glassdoor (for larger companies)
But be careful—stick to the facts to avoid defamation issues. Don’t rant, just report.
Step 5: Use a Collection Agency or Legal Option
If the amount owed is significant, you have options:
Freelancer’s Union and Writers Guild offer legal help. Small claims court may be worth it for unpaid invoices. Collection services will take a cut, but it’s better than nothing.
Before going this route, let the client know you’re about to escalate. That alone may get them to pay up.
Step 6: Blacklist Them From Your Life
Once it’s resolved—paid or not—blacklist them.
Block them. Warn your freelance friends. Never, ever work with them again.
You deserve clients who respect your work and pay on time.
Bonus Tip: How to Protect Yourself Going Forward
Always use a contract—even for small gigs. Get a deposit upfront (30–50% is standard). Set clear payment terms (due date, late fees, method). Avoid vague clients who don’t commit anything in writing.
Final Thoughts
Chasing payments is exhausting and infuriating—but you’re not alone. It happens to even the most experienced freelancers. What matters most is how you respond and how you protect yourself going forward.
Your work has value. Don’t let unpaid invoices shake your confidence.
Get smart, get paid, and don’t let the scammers win.
Copyright 2025
Crystal Amon
Princess Crystal Says 
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