Quote Originally Posted by CrazyEight View Post
I just had the same problem. The family is usually great; picks up on time, polite kids, always bring more diapers when I start to run low, etc. She always pays me in cash and I've never counted it in front of her, and never had a problem. Then over the Christmas break, she didn't bother paying for stats (Christmas, boxing day, and New Year's day) even though it's in my contract that I get paid for stats, and they've always paid stats before without a peep. I need to bring it up, but I'm not sure how to do so. It seems pretty far-fetched that they would actually forget about the stats. My guess is they did it on purpose and think I'm too nice to say anything. The problem is, they're half-right, and now I'm feeling awkward just thinking about it. I hate this part of the job!

I'm as torn as you-do I start counting the cash in front of her? I think it's tacky as well, but I'd rather avoid having this problem again.
it is as simple as just saying "It looks like a mistake was made and you didn't include stat days in your payment. So the amount still owing is..." It is awkward but I always say these things with a smile on my face, makes it not feel confrontational and still upholds your contract agreement. Or if I won't be seeing them for a few days I send an email with a deadline for payment and that a late fee would be owing if not paid by that time. Before the holidays I sent an email out to each family stating what was owing and when, just to prevent any confusion or "mistakes" in amount paid.

Don't feel bad for following through on what was agreed upon in contract and also I don't hestitate sending reminders to the families that I have that forget that it is payday.