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It occurs to me that no one has mentioned the obvious first steps; maybe we all assume that you've already taken them, but just in case:
1. Good, firm, clear,easy to read contracts that include a payment schedule, lien information, and interest rate.
2. Timely billing. I find bills are paid quickly when I invoice quickly. When the job is first finished, everybody is happy and they remember how hard you worked, etc. If a week or two goes by, it seems to take longer for the check to come in.
3. Contracts should read that final payment is due upon invoice, not due upon completion so that client can't wrangle about what "completed" means.
3. As mentioned, a note on the invoice that says when it is due, and the rate thereafter. Example: Due May 1st. Terms, 18% past 15 days.
4. 15 days past the due date, make a courtesy call. Usually I don't even have to ask...I just identify myself and then they say they were just putting a check in the mail...so I say something like "That's great. Then I won't have to charge you interest! I was just calling to make sure things are going well and to remind you to water the hydrangeas"...or something like that.
5. Written and telephone reminders every 15 days. Then comes the lien or whatever recourse you want to take.
BUT JWHolden is right. Buttheads will be buttheads. Avoid 'em if you can!
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