{"id":4230,"date":"2026-08-07T15:05:09","date_gmt":"2026-08-07T14:05:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/?p=4230"},"modified":"2026-08-07T15:05:16","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T14:05:16","slug":"get-paid-faster","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/get-paid-faster\/","title":{"rendered":"How to get paid faster: Practical tips for small businesses\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--standard entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--standard\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/category\/money-matters\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Money Matters<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHow to get paid faster: Practical tips for small businesses \t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGet paid faster by setting clear payment terms early on, invoicing promptly, and making payment as easy as possible. Enable online payment and use automation and you can better protect cash flow and make follow-up more consistent.\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-08-07T15:05:09+01:00\">7 August, 2026<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"How to get paid faster: Practical tips for small businesses\u00a0\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/get-paid-faster\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/author\/elizabethleighbowler\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2018\/04\/Elizabeth-Leigh.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Elizabeth Leigh-Bowler<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Government-backed research published in 2025&nbsp;revealed that UK businesses are&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.smallbusinesscommissioner.gov.uk\/late-payments-research-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">owed an estimated \u00a326 billion in late payments<\/a>&nbsp;at any given time, while&nbsp;late payments&nbsp;cost the UK economy almost \u00a311 billion a year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can put severe pressure on small businesses. When money arrives later than expected, it can make it harder to pay suppliers, cover wages, invest in growth, or plan appropriately for the months ahead.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Strong customer relationships matter, but that\u00a0doesn\u2019t\u00a0mean accepting\u00a0late payment\u00a0is unavoidable. The work involved in getting paid faster can start much earlier than chasing overdue invoices. Clear payment terms, a smooth invoicing process, and user-friendly ways to pay can all help customers understand what is expected and act sooner.\u00a0And on your end,\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0important to have a clear\u00a0view of\u00a0what\u2019s\u00a0been paid, what is due, and when to intervene.<\/p>\n\n\n<section id=\"key-takeaways\" class=\"wp-block-sage-key-takeaways\"><div class=\"sage-key-takeaways__inner\"><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-h-3-font-size\">Key takeaways<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Set clear payment terms before work begins<\/strong> so customers understand exactly when and how payment is expected, reducing disputes and delays.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Invoice promptly and accurately<\/strong> using accounting software, templates, and recurring invoices to ensure payment requests are sent on time and contain all necessary information.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Make it easy for customers to pay<\/strong> by offering convenient payment methods such as online payment links, card payments, digital wallets, and Faster Payments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Consider shorter payment terms, deposits, or staged payments<\/strong> rather than relying on standard net 30 terms, helping to improve cash flow and reduce outstanding balances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Automate payment reminders and follow-ups<\/strong> to create a consistent collections process that keeps invoices visible without requiring manual intervention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use incentives and penalties strategically<\/strong>, such as early payment discounts or clearly communicated late payment charges, to encourage prompt payment behaviour.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Leverage e-invoicing and automation for greater visibility<\/strong> of paid, due, and overdue invoices, making it easier to monitor cash flow and identify issues early.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Review your payment process end-to-end<\/strong> to identify bottlenecks and remove friction, helping customers pay faster and improving cash flow reliability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s\u00a0what\u00a0we\u2019ll\u00a0cover:<\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-set-clear-payment-terms-before-work-starts\" data-level=\"2\">Set clear payment terms before work starts<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-use-technology-to-improve-the-invoicing-process\" data-level=\"2\">Use technology to improve the invoicing process<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-use-payment-tools-to-enable-easy-online-transactions\" data-level=\"2\">Use payment tools to enable easy online transactions<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-negotiate-faster-alternatives-to-net-30-payment-terms\" data-level=\"2\">Negotiate faster alternatives to net 30 payment terms<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-automate-reminders-and-follow-ups\" data-level=\"2\">Automate reminders and follow-ups<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-use-incentives-and-penalties-carefully\" data-level=\"2\">Use incentives and penalties carefully<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-e-invoicing-and-automation-improve-cash-flow-visibility\" data-level=\"2\">How e-invoicing and automation improve cash flow visibility<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-build-a-faster-payment-process-to-help-customers-pay-on-time\" data-level=\"2\">Build a faster payment process to help customers pay on time<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-frequently-asked-questions-on-speeding-up-payment\" data-level=\"2\">Frequently asked questions on&nbsp;speeding up payment<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-set-clear-payment-terms-before-work-starts\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Set clear payment terms before work starts<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the simplest ways to get paid faster is to agree tighter payment terms before the work begins. If the customer knows how much they need to pay, when they need to pay it, and how they can pay, there is less room for confusion later.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For larger projects, some popular methods are:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Asking for a non-refundable upfront deposit before work starts<\/strong>. This can help protect your time, cover initial costs, and confirm that the customer is committed.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Setting payment milestones<\/strong>. Instead of waiting until the end of a project to invoice the full amount, you can agree staged payments linked to key points in the work.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, you might invoice 30% upfront, 40% at an agreed milestone, and the remaining 30% on completion.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This approach can be especially useful for service-based businesses, project work, bespoke orders, or any job where delivery takes place over several weeks or months.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure your payment terms are written clearly in your quote, contract, proposal, or engagement letter. The invoice should then repeat those&nbsp;terms&nbsp;so the customer sees the same expectations throughout the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">The Art of Being Paid<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Chasing invoice payments doesn\u2019t have to be painful. Use this&nbsp;kit&nbsp;to answer a few questions about your customers so you understand their&nbsp;payment drivers, then read our advice on how to flex your style for each, calling techniques and much more.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-8810fa04-701e-460a-b37c-e767f5a74c18\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get your guide<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1261583718-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1261583718-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-use-technology-to-improve-the-invoicing-process\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Use technology to improve the invoicing process<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A slow or unclear invoicing process can delay payment even when the customer is willing to pay. If an invoice is sent late, has missing details, or makes payment difficult, the customer has more reasons to put it aside.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your invoices should include:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The customer\u2019s details\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your business details\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The invoice date\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A clear description of the work<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The amount due\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The payment deadline\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accepted payment methods\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The transaction reference number\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/accounting-software\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">accounting software<\/a>&nbsp;can make this easier. Instead of creating each invoice manually, you can use saved customer details, templates, product or service descriptions, and automatic calculations. This reduces the risk of errors and saves time when you need to send invoices regularly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/accounting-software\/invoicing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Automated invoicing<\/a>&nbsp;also helps you avoid missed invoices. If you provide repeat services, subscriptions, retainers, or ongoing work, recurring invoices can be created and sent automatically according to the schedule you set.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pro tip:&nbsp;send invoices as soon as the work is delivered, or at the payment milestone you have agreed. Waiting until the end of the week or month can add unnecessary delays before the payment clock even starts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-use-payment-tools-to-enable-easy-online-transactions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Use payment tools to enable easy online transactions<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The easier you make it for customers to pay, the more likely they are to do it quickly. If your customer\u00a0has to\u00a0search for bank details, log into a separate banking app, or ask for clarification, payment can easily be delayed.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-add-a-pay-now-button-or-payment-link\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Add a Pay Now button or payment link<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Online payment options can reduce friction. For example, invoices can include a Pay Now button or payment link that lets the customer pay by card, digital wallet, or another supported method.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many small businesses, this can make the payment experience feel more immediate. The invoice arrives, the customer opens it, and the next step is clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-offer-payment-methods-customers-recognise\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Offer payment methods customers recognise<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Payment services such as&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/stripe.com\/gb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stripe<\/a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/uk\/home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PayPal<\/a>&nbsp;can be integrated with accounting software, allowing customers to pay directly from the invoice. This means the customer does not have to copy bank details or start a separate payment process.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Offering more than one payment&nbsp;option&nbsp;can also help. Some customers may prefer bank transfer, while others may find card payment, PayPal, or a mobile wallet more convenient. The goal is to remove avoidable barriers so the customer can pay in the way that suits them best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">The Domino Effect: The impact of late payments<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Get our global research report to uncover why customers pay late, the impact on businesses and what you can do to tackle the problem.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-2cce109c-a140-4a22-b1b3-529220aee136\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download the report<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1288988716-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1288988716-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-make-bank-transfers-easier-with-faster-payments\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Make bank\u00a0transfers easier with Faster Payments<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For UK bank transfers, customers may also be able to pay using the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wearepay.uk\/what-we-do\/payment-systems\/faster-payment-system\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Faster Payment System<\/a>, which allows near-real-time transfers between participating UK bank accounts. This can&nbsp;make bank&nbsp;transfer a convenient&nbsp;option, especially for customers who prefer paying directly from their bank.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, Faster Payments only helps once the customer decides to make the payment. Clear invoice details, the correct payment reference, visible bank details, and\u00a0timely\u00a0reminders are still important for encouraging customers to pay on time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-negotiate-faster-alternatives-to-net-30-payment-terms\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Negotiate faster alternatives to net 30 payment terms<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where possible, negotiate shorter payment terms before you begin working with a customer. You might ask for payment within 7 days,&nbsp;within&nbsp;14 days, or on receipt of the invoice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many businesses use 30-day payment terms as a default. But&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/net-30-payment-terms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">net 30<\/a>&nbsp;is not always the right fit, especially for small businesses that need&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/a-free-guide-to-managing-your-cash-flow\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">steadier cash flow<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Be direct and specific. Instead of using terms that customers may misunderstand, such as \u201cnet 30\u201d,&nbsp;write \u201cpayment due within 30 days of the invoice date\u201d or \u201cpayment due by [date].\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For new customers, you can clarify that shorter payment terms, deposits, or upfront payment are temporary measures until the relationship is&nbsp;established. For ongoing clients, you can review payment behaviour over time and adjust terms if&nbsp;late payment&nbsp;becomes a repeated issue.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also offer alternative payment arrangements where&nbsp;appropriate. For example, a customer may be more willing to agree to a monthly retainer, direct debit, or staged payment schedule than a large invoice at the end of a project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The&nbsp;important point&nbsp;is to discuss payment terms before the work starts. It is much harder to change expectations after the invoice has already been issued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-automate-reminders-and-follow-ups\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Automate reminders and follow-ups<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chasing payments can feel awkward, especially when you have a good relationship with the customer. But a polite reminder is often all that is needed. Customers may simply have missed the invoice, forgotten the deadline, or assumed someone else was handling it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Automation can make follow-ups more consistent and less personal. Instead of manually checking every invoice and deciding when to send a reminder, your accounting software can send reminders based on the payment deadline.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A simple reminder schedule could include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A\u00a0confirmation when the invoice is issued.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A\u00a0reminder\u00a0three to five\u00a0days before the due date.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A\u00a0reminder on the due date.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A\u00a0follow-up\u00a0seven\u00a0days after the due date.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A\u00a0further reminder 14 days after the due date.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A\u00a0final escalation message 30 days after the due date.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact timings will depend on your payment terms and customer relationships. For shorter payment terms, you may want reminders to start sooner. For larger customers with formal finance processes, you may need to allow more time while&nbsp;still keeping&nbsp;the invoice visible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep reminder messages clear, polite, and factual. Include the invoice number, amount due, due date, payment link, and contact details in case the customer has a question.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-use-incentives-and-penalties-carefully\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Use incentives and penalties carefully<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Incentives and penalties can help encourage faster payment, but they should support your wider payment process rather than replace it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-early-payment-discounts\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Early payment\u00a0discounts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One&nbsp;option&nbsp;is to offer a small discount for&nbsp;early payment, such as payment within&nbsp;seven&nbsp;or 10 days. This can work well when faster cash flow is worth more to your business than the small reduction in revenue.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Early payment&nbsp;discounts can also create goodwill by presenting prompt payment as a benefit rather than a demand. Just make sure the discount still protects your margins and is clearly explained before the customer agrees to the work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-late-payment-fees-and-interest\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Late payment\u00a0fees and interest<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Late payment&nbsp;fees or interest on overdue invoices can encourage customers to take deadlines seriously. However, these should be used carefully and explained clearly in your contract or terms of business.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Customers should know upfront when charges may apply, how they will be calculated, and what happens if payment is missed. The aim is not to penalise customers unnecessarily but to set clear expectations and protect your business when&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/recover-unpaid-invoice\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">invoices are ignored<\/a>&nbsp;or repeatedly paid late.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-e-invoicing-and-automation-improve-cash-flow-visibility\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How e-invoicing and automation improve cash flow visibility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">E-invoicing and automation do more than help you send invoices faster. They also make it easier to see where your money is, which invoices need attention, and how incoming payments could affect your cash flow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-see-which-invoices-are-paid-due-or-overdue\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">See which invoices are paid, due, or overdue<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-an-electronic-invoice\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Electronic invoices<\/a>&nbsp;are tracked digitally,&nbsp;and&nbsp;you can see their status without checking spreadsheets or searching through email threads. This helps you understand which customers have paid, which invoices are approaching their due date, and which ones need following up.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This visibility is especially useful when several invoices are open at the same time. Instead of relying on memory or manual notes, you can use your accounting software to keep an up-to-date view of expected money coming in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-reduce-manual-errors-and-disputes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reduce manual errors and disputes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Automation can reduce the errors that often slow payments down. For example, using&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/professional-invoice-templates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">invoice templates<\/a>, saved customer details, automatic totals, and online payment links can help prevent missing information or incorrect amounts.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/payments-and-banking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">payments are matched to invoices<\/a>\u00a0automatically, there is also less risk of chasing a customer who has already paid. Fewer errors can mean fewer disputes, fewer delays, and a more reliable view of your accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-plan-ahead-with-clearer-cash-flow-data\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plan ahead\u00a0with clearer cash flow data<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A clearer view of paid, pending, and overdue invoices can help you make better business decisions. You can see whether expected payments are likely to arrive in time to cover supplier bills, wages, tax, or other commitments.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can make it easier to plan spending,&nbsp;identify&nbsp;potential cash flow gaps, and decide when to follow up with customers before&nbsp;late payment&nbsp;becomes a bigger issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-build-a-faster-payment-process-to-help-customers-pay-on-time\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Build a faster payment process to help customers pay on time<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting paid faster depends on the whole payment journey. Clear terms set expectations. Prompt invoicing starts the payment process sooner. Online payment options make it easier for customers to act.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many businesses,&nbsp;small changes&nbsp;can make a noticeable difference. Start by reviewing where payments usually slow down. Are invoices being sent too late?&nbsp;Are&nbsp;payment terms unclear? Do customers have to work too hard to pay? Are reminders inconsistent?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you know where the delays happen, you can use automation and e-invoicing to create a smoother process from the moment work begins to the moment money reaches your account.<\/p>\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-sage-faq\">\n\t\n<h2 id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions-on-speeding-up-payment\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently asked questions on\u00a0speeding up payment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-items\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-sage-faq-item\" id=\"faq-item-98da23e2\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-item-question\">\n\t\t\n<h3 id=\"h-why-do-businesses-allow-late-payment\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why do businesses allow\u00a0late payment?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/h3>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-item-answer\">\n\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Businesses often allow&nbsp;late payment&nbsp;because they want to protect customer relationships, avoid uncomfortable conversations, or keep valuable clients happy. In some cases, they may also depend on larger customers who set their own payment terms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, accepting&nbsp;late payment&nbsp;too often can damage cash flow and create pressure across the business. Clear payment terms, prompt invoicing, automated reminders, and consistent follow-up can help businesses stay professional without letting overdue invoices become normal.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-sage-faq-item\" id=\"faq-item-86398da5\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-item-question\">\n\t\t\n<h3 id=\"h-what-should-i-do-if-a-customer-still-doesn-t-pay-after-multiple-reminders\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should I do if a customer still\u00a0doesn&#8217;t\u00a0pay after multiple reminders?\u00a0<\/h3>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-item-answer\">\n\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a customer ignores repeated reminders, contact them directly to confirm they received the invoice and ask whether there is a problem preventing payment. If payment is still not received, you may need to follow your formal collections process, charge any agreed\u00a0late payment\u00a0fees\u00a0or interest, or seek legal advice depending on the circumstances.\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-sage-faq-item\" id=\"faq-item-b99cf807\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-item-question\">\n\t\t\n<h3 id=\"h-how-can-i-tell-if-a-customer-is-likely-to-pay-late\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can I tell if a customer is likely to pay late?\u00a0<\/h3>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-item-answer\">\n\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While there are no guarantees, warning signs can include requesting unusually long payment terms, delaying paperwork before work begins, repeatedly disputing small invoice details, or having a history of missed deadlines. Checking references for larger contracts and agreeing payment terms upfront can help reduce your risk.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-sage-faq-item\" id=\"faq-item-30308ce9\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-item-question\">\n\t\t\n<h3 id=\"h-is-it-worth-running-credit-checks-on-new-business-customers\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is it worth running credit checks on new business customers?\u00a0<\/h3>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-item-answer\">\n\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For larger contracts or long-term commercial relationships, a business credit check can help you assess whether a customer has a history of paying suppliers on time. For smaller jobs, deposits or staged payments may offer sufficient protection without adding extra administration.\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to the Sage Advice newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Join more than 500,000 UK readers and get the best business admin strategies and tactics, as well as actionable advice to help your company thrive, in your inbox every month.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-b1a63862-3fa0-4a5e-bb67-c76b88bbc6b8\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/cash-flow\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCash flow\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/grow-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHow to grow your business\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/make-receive-payments\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMaking and receiving payments\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-16041 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-bookkeeping tag-business-finances tag-cash-flow tag-freelancers business_type-small-business card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1282134863-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Man working on laptop at desk and looking at business priorities\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1282134863-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1282134863-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1282134863-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-17T12:27:57+01:00\">17 September, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">5 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/invoice-tips-round-up-paid-on-time\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tInvoice tips round-up: Essential advice to help you get paid on time\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tWe&#8217;ve compiled some resources to help with your invoice processes, including how to create an invoice and a set of free invoice templates.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-13339 post type-post status-publish format-audio has-post-thumbnail hentry category-growth-customers tag-freelancers tag-grow-business tag-sound-advice-podcast tag-startup-stories post_format-post-format-audio business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/sound-advice-starting-a-freelance-business-kate-bassett\/?scroll=1\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/11\/Blog_Episode-50-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Kate Bassett\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/11\/Blog_Episode-50-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/11\/Blog_Episode-50-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/11\/Blog_Episode-50-810x810.jpg 810w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"card-post__meta-icon svg-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M9.75 1.5C8.793 1.5 8 2.293 8 3.25v8.377a.8.8 0 0 0 0 .243v4.38c0 .957.793 1.75 1.75 1.75h5.5c.957 0 1.75-.792 1.75-1.75v-4.377a.8.8 0 0 0 0-.243V3.25c0-.957-.792-1.75-1.75-1.75zm0 1.5h5.5c.147 0 .25.102.25.25V11h-6V3.25c0-.148.102-.25.25-.25m-4.012 7.989a.75.75 0 0 0-.739.761v4.5A4.76 4.76 0 0 0 9.749 21h2v2a.76.76 0 0 0 .216.537.74.74 0 0 0 .534.223.76.76 0 0 0 .535-.223.74.74 0 0 0 .216-.537v-2h2A4.76 4.76 0 0 0 20 16.25v-4.5a.76.76 0 0 0-.216-.537.74.74 0 0 0-.535-.223.75.75 0 0 0-.75.76v4.5a3.24 3.24 0 0 1-3.25 3.25h-5.5a3.24 3.24 0 0 1-3.25-3.25v-4.5a.755.755 0 0 0-.469-.707.8.8 0 0 0-.293-.055zM9.5 12.5h6v3.75c0 .147-.102.25-.25.25h-5.5a.24.24 0 0 1-.25-.25zm3 1a.997.997 0 0 0-1 1 .997.997 0 0 0 1 1 .997.997 0 0 0 1-1 .997.997 0 0 0-1-1\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-17T12:27:33+01:00\">17 September, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">1 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tEverything we know about\u2026 starting a freelance business\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-2229 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-bookkeeping tag-business-finances tag-cash-flow tag-freelancers tag-start-business tag-make-receive-payments tag-tax tag-vat business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/the-ultimate-guide-to-basic-business-accounting\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1267191201_updated-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1267191201_updated-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1267191201_updated-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1267191201_updated-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-14T15:43:42+01:00\">14 September, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">18 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tThe ultimate guide to small business accounting and bookkeeping\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-20317 post type-post status-publish format-audio has-post-thumbnail hentry category-growth-customers tag-ai tag-grow-business tag-start-business tag-sound-advice-podcast tag-startup-stories post_format-post-format-audio business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/sound-advice-using-ai-for-your-business-heather-murray\/?scroll=1\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/12\/Sound-Advice_Blog_S3_Ep22-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/12\/Sound-Advice_Blog_S3_Ep22-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/12\/Sound-Advice_Blog_S3_Ep22-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/12\/Sound-Advice_Blog_S3_Ep22-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"card-post__meta-icon svg-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M9.75 1.5C8.793 1.5 8 2.293 8 3.25v8.377a.8.8 0 0 0 0 .243v4.38c0 .957.793 1.75 1.75 1.75h5.5c.957 0 1.75-.792 1.75-1.75v-4.377a.8.8 0 0 0 0-.243V3.25c0-.957-.792-1.75-1.75-1.75zm0 1.5h5.5c.147 0 .25.102.25.25V11h-6V3.25c0-.148.102-.25.25-.25m-4.012 7.989a.75.75 0 0 0-.739.761v4.5A4.76 4.76 0 0 0 9.749 21h2v2a.76.76 0 0 0 .216.537.74.74 0 0 0 .534.223.76.76 0 0 0 .535-.223.74.74 0 0 0 .216-.537v-2h2A4.76 4.76 0 0 0 20 16.25v-4.5a.76.76 0 0 0-.216-.537.74.74 0 0 0-.535-.223.75.75 0 0 0-.75.76v4.5a3.24 3.24 0 0 1-3.25 3.25h-5.5a3.24 3.24 0 0 1-3.25-3.25v-4.5a.755.755 0 0 0-.469-.707.8.8 0 0 0-.293-.055zM9.5 12.5h6v3.75c0 .147-.102.25-.25.25h-5.5a.24.24 0 0 1-.25-.25zm3 1a.997.997 0 0 0-1 1 .997.997 0 0 0 1 1 .997.997 0 0 0 1-1 .997.997 0 0 0-1-1\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-08-10T14:27:37+01:00\">10 August, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">41 min 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alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/08\/MicrosoftTeams-image-4-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/08\/MicrosoftTeams-image-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/08\/MicrosoftTeams-image-4-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-08-05T16:05:53+01:00\">5 August, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">14 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tHow to find employees\u00a0for your business\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Get paid faster by setting clear payment terms early on, invoicing promptly, and making payment as easy as possible. Enable online payment and use automation and you can better protect cash flow and make follow-up more consistent.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":580,"featured_media":3795,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-nofollow":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_page_type":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_article_type":"","_sage_video":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskeywords":"[]","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"[\"\"]","_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"6","sage_membership_post_content_type":"article","sage_membership_post_featured_video_id":"","sage_membership_post_video_type":"trailer","sage_membership_post_featured_video_duration":"","post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[24,15,25],"business_type":[4,3],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[73,74,75],"imagine_tag":[77,91,103,109],"coauthors":[475],"class_list":["post-4230","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-money-matters","tag-cash-flow","tag-grow-business","tag-make-receive-payments","business_type-small-business","business_type-medium-sized-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-gb","author_name":"Elizabeth Leigh-Bowler","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2018\/02\/GettyImages-554994217_super.jpg","imagine_tags":{"77":"Accounting software","91":"Growing business","103":"Payroll software","109":"Small business"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice UK","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4230","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/580"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4230"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4230\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31874,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4230\/revisions\/31874"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/3795"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4230"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4230"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4230"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=4230"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=4230"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=4230"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=4230"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=4230"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=4230"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=4230"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}