First of all never ever continue care until payment has been received. For myself payment is due Friday morning for the following 2 weeks. If they don't pay Friday morning they cannot leave their child for the day (a day of which they have already paid for). I do have a late payment fee of $15 for any parents that I agree to keep their child (sometimes exceptions for long time parents). That fee begins at noon on Friday and continues at noon everyday until payment is received (including Saturday and sunday). I had a family not pay me on the Friday and then cancel care immediately. They still owed me for 2 weeks. We worked out a payment plan and they did pay me. I held all tax receipts until payment was received. I gave them 6 weeks to pay in full or I would file a Small Claim in court. Luckily I didn't have to take it that far. I am more strict now and will not keep a child for the day if I do not receive my money Friday morning.