Rate change

[Littledragon]

So here's the deal:

When this family started, they were informed (and it was written on their contract) that as of June, their rate would increase by $45 (I was charging them $40 because I wasn't going to be issuing receipts until June...long story). So, now I've mentioned to them, at least twice now, that their rate will be increasing to $45 a day. This was my rate. I've had to lower my rate to $40 because I wasn't getting any bites. Thing is, I know the family wanted to talk about the rate change, but they have been continuously dodging my attempts at dicsussion. I'm sure all of you know which family I am talking about. if you don't, they have taken advantage in EVERY way they possibly could since they started. I was just sitting down to write a notice stating that their rate would be increasing as of June 18th. I don't care if they don't want to discuss it - the only thing that would have come out of the discussion was my leaving the rate as it is currently, so they're the only ones losing out.

PROBLEM is, my husband just mentioned that his opinion is that I don't increase their rate bc I am no longer charging $45 a day. But, I know that if I leave it the same, they'll think they won and feel like they can take advantage of me again. My husband said that they might just be happy with their services. But my gut is telling me that I leave it the way it is, they will just think they've won.

What do you guys think? My heart and mind want to up the price just to spite them. I know is bad business, but they were informed originally, and they've dodged any attempt I've made to help them, so I feel like I should carry through with my original plan.

Suggestions are welcome

PS: I will be letting this family go as soon as I can. But it could be a few months from now, as I am focusing on filling my daycare first.

[playfelt]

If other families coming into care are going to be charged $40 a day then you pretty much have to also charge the current family $40 a day to be fair. Yes you did say the rate was going up but you changed your mind in reality. My vote is with your husband that they stay at their current rate.

[jec]

I agree with playfelt- if other families are being charged 40 then you should charge 40 for this family.

If it's really bothering you that they may think that they won...they haven't as your looking to replace them in a few months. Your bitter with them, and rightfully so! That day when you give them their notice, you will get the peace of mind knowing that you no longer have to work with these people who have been taking advantage.

[Inspired by Reggio]

I agree with the others - if you have decided to maintain a rate of $40 a day after all than ALL clients should be paying the same rate for the same service .... so unless they have a 'specialty service' of some sort that warrants an additional charge they should not have their rate go up if you are not raising other's rates for the same service ... so for example I have clients who pay more than others because my fees are based on a maximum nine hour day .... if you use more than nine hours a day you pay $5/half hour each day....so I have some clients who pay $32 a day and some who pay $37 a day.

I know I get frustrated and well honestly angry with feeling taken advantage of when I hear that peers with Rogers Cable or other service companies are paying LESS for the exact same service as I am - IMO it is poor customer service and retention practice to have 'unfair fee structures' and people will spread negative word of mouth about that kind of treatment!