Originally Posted by littlefriends:
We all let things slide with parents once in awhile knowing in the back of our mind we’ll probably pay for it later. Like others said that doesn’t mean you can’t right it now. Just text them that you need payment tonight, including late fees, and that from this point forward you will no longer accept the kiddo into care if payment is not up to date.
My first family left owing me money and that's when I began charging in advance.
I bill by Venmo on Friday evenings and I charge a late fee on Sunday afternoon if I haven't received payment. My policy is to not accept children into care Monday morning if the payment wasn't made by 9pm Sunday night.
I haven't ever had to turn anyone away on Monday morning for non-payment, but I am prepared to do it. It's a matter of which form of pain I would rather live with. And the pain of letting people walk all over you is worse to me than the pain of ditching those people.