You finished the job. The client says thank you. Then you wait for the money. And wait.

Getting paid is part of the skill. Here are 7 steps to protect yourself.

1. Agree on the price and the work in writing

Before you start, write down what you will do, how many changes are allowed, when you will finish, and the price. A simple message on WhatsApp or email is enough. Then the client cannot say “I did not agree to that”.

2. Agree on the currency

If the client is far away, ask which money they will pay in. Write it down. Do not change it later.

3. Ask for a deposit

For a new client, ask for part of the money first, for example half. Start the work after the deposit arrives. This protects you.

4. Ask your bank or mobile money provider first

Before you quote a price to a client in another country, ask your bank or mobile money provider how you can receive money from abroad, and what fees you will pay. Then you can add the fees to your price and avoid surprise costs.

5. Send a clear invoice

An invoice should show your name, the client name, what the work was, the amount, the date and how to pay you. It does not need to be fancy. A neat document from your phone is enough.

6. For new clients, send the final work after you get paid

You can send a small preview first, for example with a watermark. Send the full file when the money arrives. For long jobs, split the work into stages and ask for payment at each stage.

7. Keep your records

Save your messages, invoices and payment proof in one folder on your phone, and back it up. If a problem comes later, you will have proof. Ask an accountant how to handle tax for your freelance income.

Watch out for the overpayment trick

A client sends you too much money, then asks you to send back the extra. Later the first payment fails or is taken back, and you lose your own money. Wait until the money is fully in your account. If something feels wrong, stop and ask your bank.

Do great work, then get paid for it. Both are part of the job.

Want to Learn More About Working Online?

Our Social Media Training helps you build digital skills you can sell. Visit our Mwenge office, or book a paid consultation from TZS 150,000 for 2 hours. We do not offer free consultations by phone call, WhatsApp, or DM.

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P.S. Before your next job, write down the price, the work and the deposit. It takes 5 minutes and can save you weeks of waiting.