- your cashflow and ability to fund work
- the progress of the project (if subsequent phases are only started once prior phases have been fully paid for)
- your client and contractor relationships
- your invoicing approach for each new project or contract.
The Problem With a “Default” Timeframe
I’ve endured a number of issues that arise when I blindly put a default timeframe on my invoices without giving any thought to the payment value or client. Firstly, some clients’ accounts teams work to certain pay cycle timeframes, no matter what. Come hell or high water, my invoice won’t be paid any faster than their established timeframes allow. Hassling those clients before that time is up is only annoying, seeing as they can’t do anything to change the situation. Secondly, if I’m invoicing a client for a small amount, I’m not usually prepared to wait around for the same timeframe I would for a larger amount. Yet my “default” payment timing approach saw small values and big values take the same amount of time to get paid — at a minimum. If a client delayed payment for some reason, I’d find myself waiting even longer for a small payment. Last of all, if you’ve agreed on a payment timeframe with your client, then send them an invoice that has different payment terms on it, this can give the impression that you lack attention to detail, are forgetful, and/or aren’t really listening to what the client is saying. For these reasons, it’s important to consider each invoice and client on their own merits before applying a timeframe to the payment.How to Set an Appropriate Timeframe
The task of setting an appropriate timeframe for payment involves balancing your needs against the conditions your client is working under. My basic process for determining a suitable payment timeframe looks like this.1. Have I already agreed on payment terms with the client?
Often clients will specify their payment terms up front, perhaps in a formalized work contract, or simply as we discuss the project’s invoicing plan. So my first consideration is: have I agreed on payment timings and invoice payment timeframes with the client? If so, these guide my invoicing approach with that client.2. Does the client have a regular payment cycle?
Rather than put in a two-week invoice and find out after two weeks that the client has a monthly pay cycle, I prefer to ask my contact about their payment cycle at the outset.3. What’s the value of the invoice?
If I can, I like to put a short payment timeframe on an invoice for a small amount. It shouldn’t be difficult for a client to meet an invoice for a couple of hundred dollars. Also, I don’t want to be waiting weeks before I have a chance to follow such a small-value invoice up: I want to receive small payments as soon as possible, so I’m not still chasing them up weeks or months down the track.4. Will payment need to occur before I undertake further work?
Usually I’m happy to continue working while my invoice is being processed and paid. But if the client and I have agreed that each project phase won’t start until I’ve been paid for the prior phase, I’ll tend to put a shorter timeframe on the invoice so that we can keep the project’s momentum going.5. How soon do I want to start chasing this invoice up?
As someone who’s faced her fair share of non-paying clients, a large aspect of my invoicing approach revolves around working out how soon I’ll be able to chase overdue payments up. This gives me a sense of security: I won’t be waiting a month for payment to become overdue, then trying to track down my client, who’s energy has long since been diverted to other, more pressing tasks. These are the considerations I use to work out the timeframes I should put on my invoices. For the record, my default timeframe is two weeks, but if I can, I’ll choose a shorter timeframe for smaller amounts (never shorter than a week) and for new clients I haven’t worked with before. What are your invoicing timeframes? And how did you work them out? Image by stock.xchng user iprole.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Invoice Payment Timeframes
What is an invoice payment timeframe?
An invoice payment timeframe refers to the period within which a customer is expected to pay for goods or services after receiving an invoice. This period can vary depending on the terms agreed upon between the buyer and the seller. It’s crucial for businesses to set appropriate payment timeframes to maintain healthy cash flow and ensure smooth operations.
How can I choose the best invoice payment timeframe for my business?
Choosing the best invoice payment timeframe for your business depends on several factors. These include the nature of your business, your cash flow needs, and your relationship with your clients. For instance, if you run a business that requires immediate cash to operate, you might opt for a shorter payment timeframe. However, if you have a long-standing relationship with a client, you might offer a longer payment timeframe as a sign of goodwill.
What are the common types of invoice payment timeframes?
The common types of invoice payment timeframes include net 30, net 60, and net 90. These terms indicate that the payment is due 30, 60, or 90 days after the invoice date, respectively. Some businesses may also use terms like “due upon receipt,” which means the payment is expected as soon as the customer receives the invoice.
How can I enforce my invoice payment timeframe?
Enforcing your invoice payment timeframe can be achieved through clear communication and setting expectations upfront. Include your payment terms in your contract and on the invoice itself. If a client is consistently late with payments, consider implementing late fees or interest charges.
What should I do if a client doesn’t pay within the agreed timeframe?
If a client doesn’t pay within the agreed timeframe, it’s important to follow up promptly. Send a polite reminder about the overdue payment. If the client continues to delay payment, you may need to consider more formal collection methods, such as hiring a collection agency or taking legal action.
How does the invoice payment timeframe affect my cash flow?
The invoice payment timeframe directly impacts your cash flow. If your clients pay their invoices promptly, you’ll have a steady stream of income to cover your business expenses. However, if your clients consistently pay late, it can create cash flow problems, making it difficult for you to meet your financial obligations.
Can I negotiate the invoice payment timeframe with my clients?
Yes, you can negotiate the invoice payment timeframe with your clients. If a client requests a longer payment term, consider their payment history and the potential impact on your cash flow before agreeing to their request.
What is the impact of invoice payment timeframes on client relationships?
Invoice payment timeframes can impact client relationships. Offering flexible payment terms can strengthen your relationship with your clients. However, consistently late payments can strain the relationship, especially if you need to resort to formal collection methods.
How can I manage multiple invoice payment timeframes?
Managing multiple invoice payment timeframes can be challenging, but it’s easier with the help of invoicing software. These tools can track your invoices, send reminders for upcoming due dates, and even automate the collection process for overdue payments.
What are the legal implications of invoice payment timeframes?
The legal implications of invoice payment timeframes can vary depending on your location and the specific terms of your contract. In some cases, you may be able to charge interest or late fees on overdue payments. However, it’s important to consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and responsibilities.
Georgina has more than fifteen years' experience writing and editing for web, print and voice. With a background in marketing and a passion for words, the time Georgina spent with companies like Sausage Software and sitepoint.com cemented her lasting interest in the media, persuasion, and communications culture.