Onsite Service - Bill them later, or invoice them now?

[mark01]

I am starting an onsite computer repair business. I was wondering if it was better to send them an invoice in the mail, or fill out an invoice while I am there, and give it to them?

 

[Terpsfan]

I created my own invoicing system, which is basically a database installed on my laptop. I punch in the items in the invoice and can print it out at will, sending it to a preformatted Word document that the client can sign.

I only prepare this document until after I have rendered services. You could always prepare an estimate if you like.

I think it's better to have the invoice prepared at the time of service because (1) you won't forget about it (2) it's more professional (3) helps you be more organized.

 

[sleipnir214]

I think, in addition to Omega36's points, providing an invoice or at least a statement of work at the time the work is completed can eliminate or reduce debates over whether a charge is legitimate. You can discuss what you did and what you will charge the client at the time you complete the work.

And get a signature on that document.


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[chiph]

Whether to bill at the time the service was rendered also means you need to consider whether they're likely to pay you in 30..60..90 days, or at all.

Chip H.


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[pmonett]

I'm with sliepnir on this one. Don't leave client site until you have a signature. The signature is what validates your work, and limits the possibilities of contesting your right to being paid.
As for what duration of credit you give, that is a market decision. I would simply suggest that you not make any pre-imprinted boxes with delays printed next to them, because if a client sees that you admit 90-day delays, they will want 90 days to pay you. If you do allow delay in payment, do it on a case-per-case basis, in your writing. And on both copies.

And get them signed.

Pascal.

 

[dgillz]

Invoice them now. I have a couple of customers who will write me a check right then and there. Thats not a requirement of doing business with me, but it sure is nice

Software Sales, Training, Implementation and Support for Exact Macola, eSynergy, and Crystal Reports
askdon@srhconsulting.com

http://www.srhconsulting.com

 

[chelseatech]

We got called in to a company to help with some advice. Then that person left, and the replacement said the work hadn't been authorised. Never got paid for it.

Get a Purchase Order number or a signature on a piece of paper before you start, if you can.

Editor and Publisher of Crystal Clear

http://www.chelseatech.co.nz/pubs.htm

 

[dgillz]

I had one experience similar to Bruce's. If was it only my time, I can easily write that off, however I had hired a subcontractor and wanting to keep a good relationship with that subcontractor, I had to pay him. So in my case it was $$$ out of my pocket, not just my time.

Software Sales, Training, Implementation and Support for Exact Macola, eSynergy, and Crystal Reports
askdon@srhconsulting.com

http://www.srhconsulting.com