10 Proven Ways to Get Paid Faster as a Small Business

The Cash Flow Challenge

Late payments are one of the biggest challenges facing small businesses in South Africa. Here are 10 proven strategies to get paid faster.

1. Send Invoices Immediately

Don't wait! Send your invoice as soon as work is completed. Every day you delay is another day before you get paid.

2. Offer Multiple Payment Methods

Make it easy for clients to pay:

• Credit/debit cards (via Paystack)
• EFT/Bank transfer
• Instant EFT
• Digital wallets

3. Set Clear Payment Terms

State payment terms clearly on every invoice:

• "Payment due upon receipt"
• "Net 7 days"
• "Net 14 days"

Shorter terms = faster payment!

4. Offer Early Payment Discounts

Incentivize quick payment with discounts:

• 2% discount if paid within 7 days
• 1% discount if paid within 14 days

5. Require Deposits Upfront

For large projects, request:

• 50% upfront deposit
• 25% at milestone
• 25% on completion

6. Automate Payment Reminders

Use software to send automatic reminders:

• 3 days before due date
• On due date
• 3 days after due date
• 7 days after due date

7. Make Invoices Professional & Clear

Professional invoices get paid faster:

• Include your logo
• Clear line items
• Obvious payment instructions
• All contact details

8. Include Late Payment Fees

Clearly state late payment consequences:

• Interest on overdue amounts (e.g., 2% per month)
• Administrative fees
• Service suspension clauses

9. Follow Up Personally

For important clients, pick up the phone:

• Friendly reminder call
• Ask if there are any issues
• Confirm payment timeline

10. Use Online Payment Links

Make it one-click easy with embedded payment buttons. Clients can pay directly from the invoice email!

Conclusion

Implementing even a few of these strategies can dramatically improve your cash flow. ZinithX Pro includes features for automated reminders, online payments, and professional invoicing to help you get paid faster.