{"id":36512,"date":"2024-04-01T08:53:12","date_gmt":"2024-04-01T15:53:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/honeybook.site.strattic.io\/?p=36512"},"modified":"2024-05-01T10:08:02","modified_gmt":"2024-05-01T17:08:02","slug":"process-for-collecting-payments","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/process-for-collecting-payments","title":{"rendered":"Build your process for collecting payments"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Building an efficient process for collecting payments will benefit everyone. When you offer secure, stress-free options, your clients are able to build their trust in you. On your end, you can enjoy faster payments and fewer to-dos on your plate. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"793\" src=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-1024x793.png\" alt=\"Person using credit card to make online payment.\" class=\"wp-image-94273\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-1024x793.png 1024w, https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-300x232.png 300w, https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-768x594.png 768w, https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-1536x1189.png 1536w, https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments.png 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Staying on top of cash flow, ensuring timely payments from your customers, and keeping accounts receivable low are critical to the success of your business. When it comes to <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/process-for-collecting-payments\">collecting payments<\/a>, it\u2019s best to follow a process that removes as much friction as possible for the client, promoting faster payments and a great customer experience. Additionally, it should ensure your client and business are protected.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The start of a project is also one of the most important times to set the tone with your clients and get prepared with everything you need for mutual success.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learn how to build a seamless process for collecting payments that keeps you and your clients happy and informed. We\u2019ll cover everything that needs to happen before, during and after payment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick checklist for collecting payments<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#information\">Gather client information<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#templates\">Create your invoice templates<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#reminders\">Use automatic billing and payment reminders<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#options\">Offer both credit card and ACH payments<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#software\">Choose an all-in-one payment software<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#late-payments\">Communicate immediately about late payments<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#kick-off\">Kick off your projects after collecting payment<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<span id=\"information\"><\/span>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Gather client information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>First, it\u2019s important to understand the incoming client and their needs. If you aren\u2019t on the same page before payment, you could be setting yourself up for a difficult relationship and project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Within your client vetting process, take the time to set up an intake call or send out an <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/client-intake-form\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">intake questionnaire<\/a>. Using HoneyBook, you can schedule an automated questionnaire to send after someone inquiries so that you can save time and make the process more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After you gather more information from them, you can put together a digital brochure that outlines their needs and scope of work based on the questionnaire or conversations you\u2019ve had. We recommend using a <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/free-brochure-templates-professionally-designed-easy-to-use\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brochure template<\/a> that only requires a bit of customization for each client, helping you to save time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Using HoneyBook, you can include your branding elements and include questions to get more information from clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<span id=\"templates\"><\/span>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Create your invoice templates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Creating a new invoice for every single client will take up all your time. Instead, create <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/free-invoice-templates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">invoice templates<\/a> that you can simply update with each client\u2019s information, services, and payment terms. Depending on your business and clients, this might look like a monthly fee or a scheduled plan with a deposit <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/retainer-fees\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">retainer fee<\/a> and then an hourly rate moving forward.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A professional invoice template should provide your clients with their payment due dates as well as your preferred payment methods. You should also incorporate your brand to make your invoice more professional.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-container ugb-container ugb-b31d35c ugb-container--v2 ugb-container--design-basic ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-b31d35c-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper{background-color:#131416 !important;background-image:url(https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/Black_CTA_Background.jpg)}.ugb-b31d35c-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper:before{background-color:#131416 !important;opacity:0}.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > h1,.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > h2,.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > h3,.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > h4,.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > h5,.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > h6{color:#ffffff}.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > p,.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > ol li,.ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper > ul li{color:#ffffff}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.ugb-b31d35c > .ugb-inner-block > .ugb-block-content > *{padding-top:60px !important;padding-bottom:60px !important;padding-right:60px !important;padding-left:60px !important}}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-container__wrapper ugb-b31d35c-wrapper ugb--has-background-overlay\"><div class=\"ugb-container__side\"><div class=\"ugb-container__content-wrapper ugb-b31d35c-content-wrapper\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-text-color\"><strong>Generate a free invoice template<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-white-color has-text-color\">Get started with our free <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/invoice-template\">invoice generator<\/a>. Create a branded template you can reuse for multiple clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-button ugb-button-wrapper ugb-4d6aac6 ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-4d6aac6 .ugb-block-content{justify-content:flex-start !important}.ugb-4d6aac6 .ugb-button1{background-color:#ffd552}.ugb-4d6aac6 .ugb-button1 .ugb-button--inner,.ugb-4d6aac6 .ugb-button1 svg:not(.ugb-custom-icon){color:#222222 !important}.ugb-4d6aac6 .ugb-inner-block{text-align:left}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-button-container\"><a class=\"ugb-button1 ugb-button ugb-button--size-normal\" href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/invoice-template\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"\"><span class=\"ugb-button--inner\"><strong>Generate my invoice<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Combine contract, invoice, and payment in one step<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to save even more time? Make your invoice templates more robust with a software like HoneyBook.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>HoneyBook\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/online-payment-software\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online payment software<\/a> enables you to create interactive files with multiple actions, like service selection, contract, invoice, and payment. The file will automatically pull your client\u2019s service selections from one page into a contract and invoice on the next pages.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-container ugb-container cta-pro-tip ugb-0041221 ugb-container--v2 ugb-container--design-basic ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-0041221-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper{padding-top:0 !important;padding-bottom:0 !important}.ugb-0041221-wrapper > .ugb-container__side{padding-top:35px !important;padding-bottom:35px !important}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.ugb-0041221.ugb-container{padding-top:0px !important}}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-container__wrapper ugb-0041221-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-container__side\"><div class=\"ugb-container__content-wrapper ugb-0041221-content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-columns ugb-columns ugb-c9eef97 ugb-columns--design-plain ugb-columns--columns-2 ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-c9eef97 > .ugb-inner-block > .ugb-block-content > .ugb-columns__item{grid-template-columns:0.20fr 1.80fr !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-columns__item ugb-c9eef97-content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-column ugb-column ugb-381f79f ugb-column--design-plain ugb-main-block\"><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-column__item ugb-381f79f-column-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-column__content-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/asset-4.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-83436\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-column ugb-column ugb-97eb796 ugb-column--design-plain ugb-main-block\"><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-column__item ugb-97eb796-column-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-column__content-wrapper\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pro tip<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The pre-work before collecting payments takes some of the most effort within the entire process, but getting it right will set everyone up for success. To make sure you\u2019re hitting the right steps, consider hiring a <a href=\"https:\/\/pros.honeybook.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HoneyBook Pro<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<span id=\"reminders\"><\/span>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Use automatic billing and payment reminders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you\u2019re an independent business owner with multiple clients, it\u2019s difficult to juggle different payment schedules and due dates. Instead of having to manually <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/how-to-remind-clients-to-pay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">remind someone to pay you<\/a>, use automation to bill your clients and remind them when payments are due without lifting a finger.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recurring billing will automatically send <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/online-invoices\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"online invoices\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">online invoices<\/a> to your clients when it\u2019s time (if they\u2019re on a recurring payment schedule), while payment reminders can nudge them near the due date to make sure they pay on time. You can also set up automatic payments to automatically collect payments from customers with recurring invoices\u2013helping both of you save time and collect payments faster.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Automated <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/payment-reminder-email\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">payment reminder emails<\/a> can get clients to pay faster than they normally do, helping you get paid on time. It also reduces stress when you don\u2019t need to worry about where a project stands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When done manually, we all know how awkward it can be to have to continually remind someone about their outstanding payment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In HoneyBook, you can set up <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/recurring-payments\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">recurring payments<\/a> whenever you\u2019re creating an invoice. <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/payment-reminders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Automated payment reminders<\/a> are something you can turn on in your Company Settings so they apply regardless of your clients\u2019 payment structure. Though it\u2019s automated, you can still customize your payment reminder emails and decide if they should go out before, during, and\/or after the due date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<span id=\"options\"><\/span>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Offer both credit card and ACH payments<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When it\u2019s time for customers to pay, they\u2019re putting their trust in you to provide easy and secure payment options. If you\u2019re still taking cash payments, it\u2019s time to reevaluate your process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Accepting cash might seem easier, but it can be difficult to track your cash flow on paper. Depending on your pricing, cash payments can also make it more difficult for clients to pay.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead, offer clients <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/how-to-accept-payments-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online payment options<\/a> that give them more security and give you more efficiency. Your secure payment options can include either credit card payment, ACH payments, or both. As of 2021, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpapracticeadvisor.com\/accounting-audit\/news\/21208440\/digital-payments-to-hit-66-trillion-in-2021-a-40-jump-in-two-years\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">digital payments grew 40%<\/a> in the past two years, showing how essential it is for small business owners to collect money online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to use credit card and ACH processing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/credit-card-processing-for-small-business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Credit card processing<\/a> requires a merchant account and payment gateway, which charge fees for their services. ACH processing has lower or zero fees, but it may take longer for ACH funds to deposit into your business bank account.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>HoneyBook offers credit card processing and <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/ach-payment-processing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ACH payment processing<\/a> so your clients have options for paying online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<span id=\"software\"><\/span>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Choose an all-in-one payment software<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As an independent business owner, you can either find the individual services that make up secure payment processing, or you can use a service like HoneyBook, which offers complete <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/clientflow-management-platform\">clientflow management<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>HoneyBook will provide everything you need so you don\u2019t need to find an ACH payment processor, merchant account, or payment gateway for your clients.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-container ugb-container cta-pro-tip ugb-828b88a ugb-container--v2 ugb-container--design-basic ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-828b88a-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper{padding-top:0 !important;padding-bottom:0 !important}.ugb-828b88a-wrapper > .ugb-container__side{padding-top:35px !important;padding-bottom:35px !important}@media screen and (min-width:768px){.ugb-828b88a.ugb-container{padding-top:0px !important}}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-container__wrapper ugb-828b88a-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-container__side\"><div class=\"ugb-container__content-wrapper ugb-828b88a-content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-columns ugb-columns ugb-b22a2d7 ugb-columns--design-plain ugb-columns--columns-2 ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-b22a2d7 > .ugb-inner-block > .ugb-block-content > .ugb-columns__item{grid-template-columns:0.20fr 1.80fr !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-columns__item ugb-b22a2d7-content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-column ugb-column ugb-7331e64 ugb-column--design-plain ugb-main-block\"><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-column__item ugb-7331e64-column-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-column__content-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/asset-4.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-83436\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-column ugb-column ugb-ac52a96 ugb-column--design-plain ugb-main-block\"><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-column__item ugb-ac52a96-column-wrapper\"><div class=\"ugb-column__content-wrapper\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pro tip<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>All-in-one functionality can help you stay organized and offer a more professional experience, which is why you shouldn&#8217;t use <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/stop-using-venmo-business-transactions\">Venmo for business transactions<\/a> (or a similar peer-to-peer app).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Using the same platform for your payment methods that you use for your booking process will also keep everything organized and create a better client experience. Furthermore, you\u2019ll be able to accept payments from nearly anyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>HoneyBook\u2019s payment processor, for instance, accepts all major credit cards and debit cards along with ACH (eCheck) transfers. When you accept payments easily, your clients will feel secure and stress-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just keep in mind that deposit times vary for online payments. Credit card payments typically take up to 3 business days to transfer, while ACH processing may take up to 8 business days. You can always speed up the process with instant deposits that will give you funds within 30 minutes to 24 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cta-related-posts is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center left-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<p class=\"related-post-heading\">Related Post<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/payment-processing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The ultimate guide to small business payment processing<\/a><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/payment-processing\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"793\" src=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/guide-to-payment-processing-1024x793.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-86591\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/guide-to-payment-processing-1024x793.png 1024w, https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/guide-to-payment-processing-300x232.png 300w, https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/guide-to-payment-processing-768x594.png 768w, https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/guide-to-payment-processing-1536x1189.png 1536w, https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/guide-to-payment-processing.png 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<span id=\"late-payments\"><\/span>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Communicate immediately about late payments<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One dreaded part of collecting payments is the rare case when clients are late on their payments or stop paying at all. Despite having payment reminders, automatic billing, and simple payment options, you may still run into these types of clients.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first step: take a deep breath! Most clients won\u2019t do this to you, so keep focusing on your projects at hand. With your non-paying client, try to communicate with them and understand why they aren\u2019t paying. Quick and effective communication is one of the best ways to <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/prevent-chargebacks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prevent chargebacks<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Communicating with clients is key to avoiding disputes and ensuring a great experience for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re able to communicate with them, see if you can hop on a phone call and ask if there\u2019s anything you can do to be able to move forward. Perhaps they\u2019ve realized they can\u2019t afford the full scope of the project. If so, is there a way to readjust the budget and cut some of the services?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you can\u2019t find a way to move forward or can\u2019t communicate with your client, you can cancel the project and stop it from moving forward. Situations like these are why it\u2019s so important to include clauses in your contract about non-payment, cancellation, late fees, and refunds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These clauses will help you navigate unexpected situations and keep you legally protected.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be sure to keep as much documentation pertaining to the client as possible, including your communications, <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/online-contract\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"online contracts\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">online contracts<\/a>, files and more. These will come in handy if you have to deal with a chargeback.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this case, there may be some legal action or debt collection you can pursue, but it may also be best to think of the long term. The stress and cost of legal action and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ftc.gov\/enforcement\/rules\/rulemaking-regulatory-reform-proceedings\/fair-debt-collection-practices-act-text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">fair debt collection<\/a> may not be worth it in the long run, depending on what you\u2019re dealing with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<span id=\"kick-off\"><\/span>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kick off your projects after collecting payments<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When everything goes smoothly (as it usually will!), your clients\u2019 initial payment marks the start of your project. Your workflow may vary depending on how you run your business, but we recommend moving forward with an official kickoff meeting or call where you can gather specifics from the client.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have project types that follow the same steps, you can use clientflow management software to move projects forward quickly and efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When your project ends, be sure to ask your client for a testimonial or offer additional services (if they apply). Every new client offers the opportunity for an ongoing relationship, whether they work with you again or refer other clients. By creating a seamless payment process as part of your full pipeline, you\u2019ll impress everyone you work with and build a strong brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aligncenter wp-block-ugb-container ugb-container ugb-6bb1d93 ugb-container--v2 ugb-container--design-basic ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-6bb1d93-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper{border-radius:12px !important;background-image:url(https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Banner-CTA-Background2.jpg)}.ugb-6bb1d93-wrapper.ugb-container__wrapper:before{opacity:0.5}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-container__wrapper ugb-6bb1d93-wrapper ugb--has-background-overlay\"><div class=\"ugb-container__side\"><div class=\"ugb-container__content-wrapper ugb-6bb1d93-content-wrapper\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Try HoneyBook<\/strong>&#8216;s payment processing software<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Customize your process for getting paid, whether you want to connect it to your scheduling, intake process, and or contract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ugb-button ugb-button-wrapper ugb-9def6fd ugb-main-block\"><style>.ugb-9def6fd .ugb-button1{background-color:#000000}.ugb-9def6fd .ugb-button1 .ugb-button--inner,.ugb-9def6fd .ugb-button1 svg:not(.ugb-custom-icon){color:#ffffff !important}<\/style><div class=\"ugb-inner-block\"><div class=\"ugb-block-content\"><div class=\"ugb-button-container\"><a class=\"ugb-button1 ugb-button ugb-button--size-normal\" href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/online-payment-software\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"\"><span class=\"ugb-button--inner\">Get started<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Building an efficient process for collecting payments will benefit everyone. When you offer secure, stress-free options, your clients are able to build their trust in you. On your end, you can enjoy faster payments and fewer to-dos on your plate. Staying on top of cash flow, ensuring timely payments from your customers, and keeping accounts [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":705,"featured_media":94273,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[26,545],"tags":[417,372,407,477],"class_list":["post-36512","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-finance-tips","category-mobile-app","tag-billing","tag-booking-leads","tag-invoice","tag-payments"],"acf":[],"featured_image_urls_v2":{"full":["https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments.png",2000,1548,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-150x150.png",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-300x232.png",300,232,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-768x594.png",768,594,true],"large":["https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-1024x793.png",1024,793,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-1536x1189.png",1536,1189,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments.png",2000,1548,false]},"post_excerpt_stackable_v2":"<p>Building an efficient process for collecting payments will benefit everyone. When you offer secure, stress-free options, your clients are able to build their trust in you. On your end, you can enjoy faster payments and fewer to-dos on your plate. Staying on top of cash flow, ensuring timely payments from your customers, and keeping accounts receivable low are critical to the success of your business. When it comes to collecting payments, it\u2019s best to follow a process that removes as much friction as possible for the client, promoting faster payments and a great customer experience. Additionally, it should ensure your&hellip;<\/p>\n","category_list_v2":"<a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/category\/finance-tips\" rel=\"category tag\">Finance tips<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/category\/mobile-app\" rel=\"category tag\">Mobile App<\/a>","author_info_v2":{"name":"Claire Bough","url":"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/author\/claire-bough"},"comments_num_v2":"0 comments","yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>6 Steps for Collecting Payments Quickly &amp; Securely | HoneyBook<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to collect payments by offering secure, stress-free payment options. With quicker payments, you\u2019re able to kick off projects faster.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/process-for-collecting-payments\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"6 Steps for Collecting Payments Quickly &amp; Securely | HoneyBook\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn how to collect payments by offering secure, stress-free payment options. With quicker payments, you\u2019re able to kick off projects faster.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/process-for-collecting-payments\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"HoneyBook\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/honeybook.co\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-04-01T15:53:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-05-01T17:08:02+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments-1024x793.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"793\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Claire Bough\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@Claire Bough\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@honeybook\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Claire Bough\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/process-for-collecting-payments\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/process-for-collecting-payments\",\"name\":\"6 Steps for Collecting Payments Quickly & Securely | HoneyBook\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/process-for-collecting-payments#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/process-for-collecting-payments#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.dev.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Steps-to-collecting-payments.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-04-01T15:53:12+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-05-01T17:08:02+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/hbbadmin.reliablepenguin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/6a991c0fea9476527675aa46c1f8f5e4\"},\"description\":\"Learn how to collect payments by offering secure, stress-free payment options. 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