Freelancing sounds like a dream, flexible hours, no boss breathing down your neck, and the freedom to choose your projects. But the reality? Late payments, vague contracts, and clients who suddenly vanish when it’s time to pay up. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working for exposure instead of actual money, this is for you.
The Freelance Struggle: Why This Keeps Happening
Freelancers are often seen as “non-employees,” which makes companies and clients think they can bend the rules. Many clients don’t understand that freelancing is a real profession with real bills to pay. And because there are no standardized protections like there are for full-time employees, freelancers often find themselves chasing payments, accepting low rates, or getting ghosted altogether.
How to Avoid Getting Underpaid
🔹 Know Your Rates – Research industry-standard pricing. Many freelancers start low just to get work, but low rates attract clients who undervalue your skills. Websites like Glassdoor, Upwork, and Fiverr can give you a benchmark.
🔹 Charge for Your Time & Revisions – Set clear terms for how many revisions are included in your price. If a client keeps asking for changes, that’s extra work, and you should be paid for it.
🔹 Ask for a Deposit – Before starting a project, request an upfront deposit (30-50% of the total fee). This filters out clients who aren’t serious and ensures you get paid something even if they disappear.
🔹 Use a Contract—Always – Never start a project without a written agreement. It doesn’t have to be complicated—just a simple document outlining the scope of work, deadlines, payment terms, and penalties for late payments.
🔹 Invoice Like a Pro – Send professional invoices using platforms like PayPal, Stripe, or Wave. Make sure they have clear payment deadlines (e.g., “Due in 7 days”).
How to Avoid Getting Ghosted
🔹 Screen Your Clients – If someone seems flaky from the start (late replies, vague details, haggling on price), they’re likely to ghost you. Trust your gut.
🔹 Set Milestones for Long Projects – Break bigger projects into phases, with payments due after each stage. This keeps the client invested and reduces the risk of non-payment.
🔹 Follow Up, But Set Limits – If a client is late on payment, follow up professionally. If they still don’t pay, stop working. You’re not an unpaid intern.
🔹 Consider Public Call-Outs – If a client repeatedly ignores payment requests, warning others can be an option. Websites like “Freelance Isn’t Free” allow you to report bad clients.
Freelance Work Deserves Protection
Freelancers are the backbone of many industries, yet we’re treated as disposable. It’s time to demand fair pay, timely payments, and respect for our work. GEN is here to help freelancers navigate these challenges, advocate for protections, and create a community where independent workers don’t have to struggle alone.