Getting Paid Ask yourself why the customer has chosen you. You may need to be especially wary if the customer is not local. If possible, ask for a list of five firms you can contact for credit references. Make sure your references cover major suppliers. Get a credit check done.
Credit checks are relatively inexpensive and worth it.
You can access them over the internet for an instant service. For online examples, see Accountingweb . Alternatively, add a credit charge to your invoices, which is deductible if the credit period is not taken. If your customer is a company, request a personal guarantee from the directors. Have good standard terms of supply, which protect you.