Client late payments: 6 measures to reduce them without losing the client

Clients who pay late rarely have bad intentions. Most of the time they forgot, had an unexpected expense or thought the payment "could wait" because nobody reminded them. That means most late payments are preventable.

1. A clear agreement from the start

Amounts, due dates, penalties, interest and what happens in case of delay. A written fee agreement is also an enforceable instrument, which gives the firm security.

2. A down payment before starting

An initial payment when the client signs aligns both parties' commitment and covers the initial costs of the case.

3. Easy payment

Instant transfer, payment slip and card, with a link sent directly to the client. Every extra step between the intention to pay and the payment increases delays.

4. A reminder before the due date

The most effective measure of all. A friendly notice a few days before the due date drastically reduces forgotten payments.

5. A collection sequence

A defined series of contacts after the due date, first automatic and then personal. Clear rules take the emotion out of collecting.

6. Weekly follow-up

A report of overdue installments reviewed every week. A 5-day delay is solved with a message; a 90-day delay often can't be solved anymore.

Watch the deadline for collecting

Judicial collection of fees is time-barred after five years under the Brazilian Statute of the Legal Profession. Letting debts pile up risks losing the right to be paid.

How IntegraLegal solves this

In IntegraLegal, installments are linked to each case and client, the Asaas integration generates charges with payment slips and instant transfers, and the financial dashboard shows in real time who is up to date and who is late. Collection no longer depends on memory and courage.

Reduce your firm's late payments: try it free for 7 days.

Read also

• How to collect fees without awkwardness (and without forgetting)
• Fee agreements: clauses that prevent conflicts with clients
• Cash flow in a law firm: the no-nonsense guide

Notice: this content is for information only. It does not replace a lawyer's analysis of the specific case. Always check the legislation, case law and rules in force on the date of your consultation.