Free guides made for real businesses like yours.
You're not alone if you've ever chased a client for payment or worried whether an invoice will clear this month. As a creative freelancer or performer, waiting to get paid can cause stress and uncertainty. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right systems in place, you can take control of your income and set boundaries that protect your business.
Every job should begin with a written agreement — even for smaller gigs. Clearly state your payment terms (e.g. 50% upfront, balance due on delivery, or 14-day terms from invoice date). This protects both you and your client from confusion later on.
Don’t delay. Send your invoice as soon as work is delivered, and make sure it includes all the right details: invoice number, due date, payment options, and a breakdown of services. Use a clean invoice template or accounting tool that helps you stay organised.
Reduce excuses by making it easy to pay you. Offer bank transfer, Stripe, or card payments where possible. The more frictionless the process, the faster clients act.
Don’t be afraid to follow up. Set up email reminders before and after the due date. Keep it polite but clear. A gentle nudge often goes a long way — and signals you take your business seriously.
For longer projects or bigger commissions, break payments into stages: a deposit to start, a milestone payment mid-way, and a final payment before handover. This improves your cash flow and protects your time investment.
While it’s a last resort, having a late payment policy encourages timely payment. Include a short clause in your contract explaining your fee (e.g. £25 or 3% of the overdue amount after 14 days).
Getting paid on time isn’t just about money — it’s about self-worth and peace of mind. You deserve to be paid fairly and promptly for your talent and time. These small changes add up to big confidence and more stable income.
💡 Still chasing invoices or unsure what’s overdue? Our Bookkeeping Services help creatives like you stay on top of who owes what — and when — so you can keep creating while we keep the finances flowing.
Always set clear terms in writing. Common options include 50% upfront and 50% on delivery, or full payment within 14–30 days of invoice. Spell this out in your contract or agreement to avoid disputes.
Yes. Under UK law, freelancers and small businesses can charge statutory interest or a fixed fee for overdue payments — but it’s best to include a specific clause in your contract ahead of time.
Use written contracts, send invoices promptly, follow up with reminders, and offer easy payment options. Deposits or milestone payments also help secure commitment and reduce risk.
Yes. Deposits protect your time and reduce cash flow stress. They also show that a client is serious. Many creatives take 30–50% upfront to secure the booking.
We help creatives like you build solid financial systems, avoid late payments, and free up time to focus on your work. Book a free call or grab our downloadable guide for freelancers.