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How to handle delay in payment

Published on July 25th, 2024

8 mins

Clients not paying up on time? They might ghost you or no longer need your services! This is a cautionary sign. Here is a script for you to handle this situation sensibly:

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Approach 1: Handle delay in payments like a professional.

Client: I am tight on budget right now. I will pay you next month.

You: I completely understand that budgets can be tight sometimes. Let's figure out a solution that works for both of us.

You: One option could be to set up a payment plan. We can break down the amount into smaller, more manageable installments over the next few weeks. How does that sound to you?

Client: That might work. What would the payment plan look like?

You: Great! We could split the total amount into [number] installments, each due every [time period, e.g., week or bi-weekly]. This way, it's easier on your budget, and we can still ensure the project moves forward smoothly.

Client: That sounds reasonable. Let's go with that.

You: Excellent! I'll send over an updated invoice with the new payment schedule. If you have any questions or need any adjustments, just let me know. We're in this together, and I want to make sure we find a solution that's fair for both of us.

Approach 2: Offering a Discount for Immediate Payment

Client: I am tight on budget right now. I will pay you next month.

You: I understand that financial constraints can be challenging. Let's see if we can find a solution that works for both of us.

You: What if we offer a small discount for immediate payment? This way, you can benefit from a reduced rate, and we can settle the payment sooner. How does that sound to you?

Client: A discount could help. How much are you thinking?

You: I can offer a [X]% discount if the payment is made within the next [number] days. This helps both of us by resolving the payment quickly. Would that be manageable for you?

Client: That sounds doable. I'll see what I can arrange.

You: Perfect! I'll update the invoice with the discount and new payment terms. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. I appreciate your cooperation.

Approach 3: Pausing Services Until Payment

Client: I am tight on budget right now. I will pay you next month.

You: I understand tight budgets can be difficult to manage. Let's discuss a solution that works for both of us.

You: One option could be to pause the project temporarily until you're able to make the payment. This way, there's no additional financial pressure on you right now, and we can resume once the payment is settled. What do you think about this approach?

Client: Pausing might be a good idea. I don't want to fall behind, though.

You: I understand your concern. We can pause the project now and prioritize it when we resume. This way, we can ensure the project stays on track once the payment is made. Does that sound like a plan?

Client: Yes, that works for me. Let's pause for now and pick up next month.

You: Great! I'll send over a revised timeline and keep everything ready to go when we resume. If anything changes or if you need further assistance, just let me know. Thanks for your understanding.

Approach 4: Quarterly Payment Plan with Discount

Client: I am tight on budget right now. I will pay you next month.

You: I completely understand that budgets can be tight sometimes. Let's work out a solution that helps you manage your budget better.

You: How about we set up a quarterly payment plan? We can divide the total amount into four installments, each due every three months. Plus, to make it easier for you, I can offer a [X]% discount on the total amount if you choose this option. How does that sound to you?

Client: That sounds reasonable. What would the payments look like?

You: Great! Here's an example: If the total amount is [Total Amount], with a [X]% discount, it would be [Discounted Amount]. Dividing this into four installments, each payment would be [Installment Amount] every three months. This way, it's easier on your budget, and you get the benefit of a discount. Does this work for you?

Client: Yes, that could work. Let's go with the quarterly plan.

You: Excellent! I'll send over an updated invoice with the new payment schedule and the discount applied. If you have any questions or need any adjustments, just let me know. We're in this together, and I want to ensure we find a solution that's fair for both of us.

Approach 5: Flexible Quarterly Payment Plan with Discount

Client: I am tight on budget right now. I will pay you next month.

You: I understand that managing budgets can be challenging. Let's find a solution that works for both of us.

You: We can set up a flexible quarterly payment plan where you pay in four installments over the year. To make it even more convenient for you, I can offer a [X]% discount on the total amount if you opt for this plan. How does that sound?

Client: That sounds like a good option. How would it be structured?

You: Perfect! For instance, if the total amount is [Total Amount], with the [X]% discount, the new total would be [Discounted Amount]. This amount would then be split into four equal payments of [Installment Amount] due every three months. This makes it manageable for you and provides a discount benefit. Does this plan suit your needs?

Client: Yes, that's very helpful. Let's proceed with the quarterly plan.

You: Great! I'll prepare an updated invoice reflecting the quarterly payment plan and the discount. If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out. I'm here to ensure we find the best solution for both of us.

Use these scripts and close any client while making them feel heard and comfortable

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