Warning: I had a client ghost me after a $2,500 project last week

Everything was going great. I'm a freelance writer and this client in Austin had me do a full website rewrite, about 15 pages total. We signed a contract, I sent the first half, they paid the deposit, no problem. I finished the rest, sent the final invoice for the other $1,250, and then... nothing. For seven days straight, no replies to emails or calls. What makes it worse is I turned down two smaller jobs to hit their deadline. Now I'm stuck with no payment and a big hole in my planned income for March. Has anyone else had a client disappear right at the payment stage? What's your next move after the contract terms run out?

2 comments

2 Comments

adam_thomas3d ago

My contract in Houston had a late fee clause that kicked in after 10 days. I sent a formal notice citing that clause, and the payment showed up the next week. Sometimes you just need to remind them the agreement is legally binding. A clear deadline for the next step can really get things moving.

emma_murray493d ago

Seriously, that just makes them find a cheaper freelancer next time.