Changing the Terms of the Contract
By Michael StoneWhy do clients enter a contract and then think they can unilaterally change the terms?
Contracts Matter; Collecting Final Payment
By Michael StoneWhen you provide a dishonest client a cost breakdown of their job, things can go wrong.
Business or Charity?
By Michael StoneIf you’re a business owner and take on a project out of the goodness of your heart, recognize you might not get paid and will be funding the project.
Payment Methods
By Michael StoneI don’t think writing a check is old fashioned, but there are so many advantages to using a credit or debit card that it’s become the preferred payment method for many.
Keep Your Head, Get Paid, Protect Yourself
By Michael StoneSometimes a potential client expects you to work for free. That’s not a smart route to take unless you have a lot of money in the bank and time on your hands.
Dishonest Clients; Collecting the Final Payment
By Michael StoneHow do you deal with a dishonest client? I recently corresponded with a contractor concerning this issue.
Payment Schedules on Small Jobs
By Michael StoneIt’s important to manage the payment schedule on your jobs, but not all jobs are the same.
Getting Paid
By Michael StoneIf the payment schedule is adjusted after you’ve started a job and they aren’t willing to pay what’s owed, file liens. You must protect your right to be paid.
How Not to Do Business
By Michael StoneA friend called today with a problem. He subbed his work to a general contractor from the east coast to do a job here on the west coast at a government facility.
Sending Invoices for Construction or Handyman Work
By Michael StoneInvoicing is one way clients delay paying. "Thanks for doing that work, send me an invoice, okay?" Why do contractors agree? Maybe they believe everyone does it.
Asking for a Lien Release Prior to Payment
By Michael StoneA specialty contractor said, "A general contractor called and asked me to send a lien release. If I do that, he will send a check for what he owes me."
Why You Need a Well-Written Contract
By Michael StoneA client decided to change the rules of their contract. She decided not to pay the full amount or on time as the contract specified.
Provide a Service, Make a Profit
By Michael StoneA young businessman called. He was in a state of shock after checking his books over the weekend and found over $11,000 in receivables, much of it over 30 days.