Payment Question

[GirlMomma]

I have a family had a funeral to attend yesterday. I didn’t get payment. DCP came in today with an entire story about why I didn’t get payment yesterday.

This family always pays electronically, not with cash or check. My invoices go out on Sunday afternoon. Payment is due Monday. This isn’t the first time DCF has been late on payment and I’ve waived their late fees in the past. I’m tired of their poor planning or “short term memory” problems being my problem. They’re invoiced weekly the day before it’s due! IMO: You knew Monday would be hectic so you should’ve paid it Sunday right after you got the invoice.

Should I still charge the late fee or am I being a jerk?

[Blackcat31]

I have a family had a funeral to attend yesterday. I didn’t get payment. DCP came in today with an entire story about why I didn’t get payment yesterday.

This family always pays electronically, not with cash or check. My invoices go out on Sunday afternoon. Payment is due Monday. This isn’t the first time DCF has been late on payment and I’ve waived their late fees in the past. I’m tired of their poor planning or “short term memory” problems being my problem. They’re invoiced weekly the day before it’s due! IMO: You knew Monday would be hectic so you should’ve paid it Sunday right after you got the invoice.

Should I still charge the late fee or am I being a jerk?

Why would you be a jerk? (hint* you're letting emotions influence your thinking)

Waiving the late fee in the past created the idea that you will do it again in the future.
I tell all my parents that I use a software program that can NOT waive late fees so if you dont want one, don't pay late.
It's not about the money but about respecting yourself and your business.

Let this family know that you waived a late fee in the past and that was their ONE free pass but you can't waive this one. Blame it on accounting software if necessary but let them know that while you send your condolences, you still need to be paid on time. Don't mix business with emotions.

[GirlMomma]

Thank you, I’m changing my mindset 🙂

[Snowmom]

If they were late paying their credit card, they'd get a late fee and wouldn't even question it.

Just because there is a face to this service, shouldn't negate the terms. Charge!

[GirlMomma]

I did! They seemed a little peeved and I had to hear more about their tough time.

Later I thought, everyone has some sort of problem going on every day. It’s life. There was no reason to feel like a jerk. It’s business.