Most unpaid invoices are not a collections problem. They are a kickoff problem.

You started without a signature. You started without 50% in the account. You took “we’ll pay when it’s done” because you needed the work. Then “done” became a moving target, and the invoice became a suggestion.

Three rules that actually collect:

1. No work without a deposit. 50% before you open the file. Not 20%. Not “after the first draft.” If they cannot pay half, they cannot pay all.

2. Scope lives in writing. A Slack “can you also…” is not a change order. Quote it in one paragraph. Wait for “approved.” Freebies train the next freebie.

3. Late invoices get a sequence, not an apology. Day 0 invoice. Day 8 past due. Day 14 pause work and apply the late fee you already wrote into the agreement. Never write “sorry to bother you.”

I put the agreement, invoice, proposal, change order, and the three emails in a $19 kit so you stop inventing this under stress.

Not legal advice. Fill the brackets. Send it before you start.