unless you want to go so far to try and sue her in small claims court, you could. but to me, that would be just too much for such a small amount of cash. not to mention it will only cause you to harbor more resentment against her. if you needed to do her a favor of lowering her rates in the first place? there was your flag....sounds like you may have been a little desperate to fill a spot, and maybe you should have concidered if she cant afford your rates, and she isnt solidly employed yet......this may not be a good fit/good idea to take this family on! I would put myself in her shoes for a second and realize she probly just doesnt have the money and the longer she drags it out the less she will regard even paying you at all. Cut your losses, wish her the best, kiss her kid, and mark in your notes to "never take her back", just another lesson learned in the fun business of daycare!!!!!!!! someone else will come along soon enough...just dont make the same mistakes twice. make sure they have solid employment.