I have a DCB that started as a drop in about a year ago. He stopped coming for about two months when mom was laid off. He started back as a drop in and became full-time a few months ago with no contract (paid daily, only when he came). Mom started a new job about three weeks ago. New schedule is 4 days per week, but days change weekly. Two days go over 10 hrs for which her charge her $5 per hour. He missed two days last week because he's in the hospital with gastrointestinal issues, having surgery Monday.

Here's my issue. I know she will EXPECT that no payment is due while he's out. My contract states that payment is due each Friday for the upcoming week, with one week vacation after six months of signing contract. Would I be wrong to insist payment is due? What would you say?

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Payment is due for the upcoming week regardless of attendance. I would tell her that she'll need to drop off payment by Friday or if she wants to post date a payment til Friday, she can drop it off any day between now and then.

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Has she signed your contract? I wasn't sure if she signed it when she started coming 4 days a week or not. If she signed it, absolutely payment is due. If not, I think you have to talk about it with her and tell her your policy. If she won't pay, you have to decide if that is someone you are able to work with... and if so, have her sign right away. Good luck. It's always when we try to be nice, huh?

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Thanks. That's what I was thinking.

Yes, she signed 3 weeks ago.

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Since she signed, I would expect payment. If this child will not return for a few weeks and you don't have an extended leave or medical emergency policy, I would negotiate something with her and put it in writing. Putting something in writing, even if it benefits her, just shows you will follow all written and agreed upon policies.

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I agree- if she signed, expect payment and remind her if you don't get it. Good luck!!

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