Skipped out on last month Fee

[Tinyones1981]

Hello all, I just need a little advice. I had a client skip out on paying last months fees. It states in the contract that there is to be notice given and if that notice is not given then fees for that period are still due. This is the first time this has happened and regardless of the amount its still wrong. I've sent an invoice and nothing has happened, about to send another invoice staying legal action will be taken if bill not payed. What is everyone's thoughts?

[adaycarelady]

I usually send people to a collection agency then I don't have to close down the daycare leaving parents without daycare. I usually threaten with the collection agency and that makes people pay. Sometimes it doesn't work and I have to send them to collections.

[mickyc]

Yep give them a timeline stating what day payment must be received and that you will seek legal action

I had one family did this to me. They ended up paying in installments as they didn't want me to take it to court.

[5 Little Monkeys]

I've never had this happen (thank god!) but if I did, I think I would give them 2-3 days to come up with the payment or at least a plan in writing to make payments. If after that they were still not paying, I would tell them I'd be taking legal action.

Like you said, it's not the amount that matters, it's the principle! People shouldn't get away with ripping people off.

[Suzie_Homemaker]

I agree that a deadline for settlement is vital element. And a couple weeks max not months away.