Today, another client disappeared without paying the remaining balance, but I’ve grown accustomed to it. As a logo designer specializing in business branding, I typically have satisfied clients. However, once in a while, someone ghosts me after multiple revisions. Recently, a client loved the drafts but kept asking for minor changes for two weeks. When we finally settled on the design, he vanished instead of paying the remaining 65%. I only take a 35% deposit, so I lost most of the payment. Although this used to upset me, I now accept it as part of the business. How do you handle situations like this 
6 Likes
While running an agency, I only had this problem a few times, but I learned early on never to release the finished output in high definition until the last payment was received.
Once you’ve shown them it’s complete, you may email them the final invoice and deliver a low-definition or black-and-white version. Release the high-resolution versions and the source material only after receiving payment.
In my opinion, any competent businessperson (referring to clients) is aware of this. You probably don’t want to work with a client who would contest this.
Either trust or money is present.
5 Likes
I appreciate your reply. Although we can never make up for lost time, it works well. But I appreciate the suggestion, so thank you for that.
4 Likes
How much time was lost? A useable version of the logo is not sent to the client until payment is received. Low res or watermarked at least means they can’t use it.
3 Likes
Spend $6,000 on time and perhaps legal costs in order to get $2,000. The majority of these disputes are only pursued because the aggrieved person wishes to express their opinions. Take a hit and concentrate on paying clients; the individuals who have taken advantage of you are aware of this.
2 Likes
You may prepare a small claims court complaint and get it served in a matter of hours or less. You will then have to appear in court, which will take several more hours. Therefore, add this time to the damages you are requesting. They will also have to cover your court expenses. Simply for the satisfaction, the trouble is well worth it.
1 Like
Yes, my friend is a landscaper, and he discovered last year that he could spend the winter bringing complaints against his non-paying clients. He has a perfect batting average thus far.