Why You’re Waiting Too Long to Get Paid (And What to Do About It)

Cashflow stress isn’t just frustrating. It’s the silent killer of many otherwise profitable businesses.

You’ve done the work, delivered the value, and yet your bank account is gasping for air. Sound familiar?

Here’s the uncomfortable truth:
If your customers are paying you late, it’s because you’re letting them.
Late payments aren’t just a client issue. They’re a systems issue.
The good news? Systems can be fixed.

Here are some low-effort, high-impact tactics to speed up cashflow without overhauling your business:

• Invoice faster — don’t wait for month end. Bill as soon as work is complete.

• Set clear payment terms — move away from “20th of the month”. Use 7 to 14 day terms with automatic reminders.

• Add payment links — make it easy for clients to pay on the spot using Stripe, or credit card.

• Bill upfront or in stages — take a 50 percent deposit for projects. You’re not a bank.

• Follow up quickly — chasing payment isn’t awkward. Running out of cash is. Set up polite automated reminders in your software.

These changes reduce Debtor Days (the average time it takes to get paid) and dramatically increase cash-on-hand without needing more sales.

Start here:

1.      Check your current Debtor Days by dividing accounts receivable by average daily sales

2.      Pick one of the above tactics and implement it this week

3.      Automate reminders and tighten your terms in your accounting system

We help clients with this all the time. It’s a quick win with a big impact.

Worried about upsetting customers with shorter terms or reminder emails?

Most won’t even notice. In fact, many will respect you more for being organised and professional.

You’re not being rude. You’re protecting your business.

Cashflow isn’t just about staying afloat. It gives you the freedom to invest, grow, or just sleep better at night.

Getting paid faster is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to unlock that freedom.