Create an invoice. The invoice can either be preprinted from an office supply store or made on the computer. The invoice should have a space for the date, client's name and company, the name of the project, the descritption of the project, the amount owed and terms of payment. In addition, the invoice should have the freelancer's information, such as company name, address, phone number and federal tax ID number.
Send out the invoice promptly. Be sure to send it out according to the client's specifications. A client might have special instructions for how an invoice should be sent, such as sending three copies. Lack of information can lead to delayed payment.
Request payment if the bill is not paid within 30 days. Large corporations may take a little longer; they routinely pay within 60 to 90 days. If payment is not received, a polite letter may be sent as a reminder stating that the bill is outstanding and payment is now due.
Send another letter if you do not hear back from the client within two weeks. Include in the second letter a copy of the contract and purchase order. Include a reply envelope along with your letter and send it certified mail.
Make a phone call. If you still don't hear back from the client, place a phone call to find out why the bill is not being paid. Be sure to document each call. If the client cannot afford to pay the bill in its entirety, suggest partial payments.
Follow up with phone calls and certified letters. If you are still unsuccessful in collecting the debt, send a final letter stating unless payment is received, you will have to take immdiate action. You can then turn the bill over to a collection agency, or take the client to small claims court.