I work freelance for a small PR company and usually get paid on the first of every month. Last month I was paid late because the 'boss' wasn't there and this month I haven't been paid yet for the same reason. I took work in today and asked about it and was told to just look upon it as an 'extra' and not expect payment on the dot. My question is (as I have bills to pay and body and soul to keep together), can they really do this to me or do I have a leverage?
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Are they in difficulties? 
quote:Originally posted by Blizzie:
Are they in difficulties?
I don't think so. Everybody employed and working in the office is being paid on the dot. It's just the freelance proof readers who have to put up with this and only just lately. If anything, I think he's expanding. He's always out in business meetings.
quote:Originally posted by cologne1:
I work freelance for a small PR company and usually get paid on the first of every month. Last month I was paid late because the 'boss' wasn't there and this month I haven't been paid yet for the same reason. I took work in today and asked about it and was told to just look upon it as an 'extra' and not expect payment on the dot. My question is (as I have bills to pay and body and soul to keep together), can they really do this to me or do I have a leverage?
That is all fine and dandy if they have previously discussed this with you, if not they are obviously having cash flow problems but the onus is not on you they need your agreement.
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
So true they are very helpful.
quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
But if I've done the work, surely I'm entitled to be paid.
Being " Freelance" don't think you would have any chance of demanding payment Cologne. 
quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
But if I've done the work, surely I'm entitled to be paid.
You are
quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
But if I've done the work, surely I'm entitled to be paid.
Do you have some legal document such as a contract with this company? Something that you can use to show they are in breach of their agreement with you?
quote:But if I've done the work, surely I'm entitled to be paid.
Cologne, I would expect to be paid too. hope it gets sorted out for you soon.
quote:Originally posted by *BB*:quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
But if I've done the work, surely I'm entitled to be paid.
Do you have some legal document such as a contract with this company? Something that you can use to show they are in breach of their agreement with you?
Good point.
I am old enough to remember the strength of the unions... The Miners strike which resulted in power cuts etc; So what happened then--- shut down the pits. That was the start of the end to Union power.
quote:Originally posted by *BB*:quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
But if I've done the work, surely I'm entitled to be paid.
Do you have some legal document such as a contract with this company? Something that you can use to show they are in breach of their agreement with you?
I have a contract, but it doesn't specify that I have to be paid on the same date every month. I just kind of take it for granted that I get paid on the 1st because that's what's been happening for the last year. sigh.
quote:Originally posted by Real:
I am old enough to remember the strength of the unions... The Miners strike which resulted in power cuts etc; So what happened then--- shut down the pits. That was the start of the end to Union power.
I gave five pounds very week and some groceries I really felt inadequate
quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by *BB*:quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
But if I've done the work, surely I'm entitled to be paid.
Do you have some legal document such as a contract with this company? Something that you can use to show they are in breach of their agreement with you?
I have a contract, but it doesn't specify that I have to be paid on the same date every month. I just kind of take it for granted that I get paid on the 1st because that's what's been happening for the last year. sigh.
If I was you, I wouldn't do any more work for them until they pay up.
quote:I am old enough to remember the strength of the unions... The Miners strike which resulted in power cuts etc; So what happened then--- shut down the pits. That was the start of the end to Union power
Real, that's a road I don't want to go down just now. I will just say that imo it was a very sad day when we got so many trade union reforms, using the term loosely.
quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:quote:I am old enough to remember the strength of the unions... The Miners strike which resulted in power cuts etc; So what happened then--- shut down the pits. That was the start of the end to Union power
Real, that's a road I don't want to go down just now. I will just say that imo it was a very sad day when we got so many trade union reforms, using the term loosely.
Ok quote:Originally posted by *BB*:quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by *BB*:quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
We can't use that excuse to not pay bills on time, it's a difficult situation, you have my sympathies. In the good old days, trade unions were very useful, nowadays so many firms don't allow them. If you are a member of one ask them for advice, if you're not a member you can still ask them for advice.
But if I've done the work, surely I'm entitled to be paid.
Do you have some legal document such as a contract with this company? Something that you can use to show they are in breach of their agreement with you?
I have a contract, but it doesn't specify that I have to be paid on the same date every month. I just kind of take it for granted that I get paid on the 1st because that's what's been happening for the last year. sigh.
If I was you, I wouldn't do any more work for them until they pay up.
The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford.
Cologne, as you haven't got a contract about your payment date, why not draft one for your boss. They can quite often appreciate problem solvers more than just being presented with a problem. just a thought.
quote:The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford.
Go to CAB and explain this to them.
quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:
Cologne, as you haven't got a contract about your payment date, why not draft one for your boss. They can quite often appreciate problem solvers more than just being presented with a problem. just a thought.
I'll think about that, but I got the distinct feeling today talking to the PA, that I was turning into a trouble maker asking for payment.
quote:Originally posted by *BB*:quote:The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford.
Go to CAB and explain this to them.
Good idea. I keep forgetting they're there.quote:I'll think about that, but I got the distinct feeling today talking to the PA, that I was turning into a trouble maker asking for payment
In the meantime, look for another income opportunity. I'm not being glib, I know it's not easy, but you never know.
quote:Originally posted by robertsam:quote:Originally posted by Real:
I am old enough to remember the strength of the unions... The Miners strike which resulted in power cuts etc; So what happened then--- shut down the pits. That was the start of the end to Union power.
I gave five pounds very week and some groceries I really felt inadequate
I was on a 3 day week then and had to buy loads of candles... Was really scary seeing everything totally black outside at night.
quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by *BB*:quote:The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford.
Go to CAB and explain this to them.
ÂĢ20 pounds a week?! How many hours do you work for them hun, whether or not you get paid at this point! Is there a minimum payment issue here? The CAB would be the very folk to go to either way.
quote:Originally posted by vrmaryport:quote:I'll think about that, but I got the distinct feeling today talking to the PA, that I was turning into a trouble maker asking for payment
In the meantime, look for another income opportunity. I'm not being glib, I know it's not easy, but you never know.
It really is not easy. Before I got this job (locally), I had scoured the net for ages and only came up with carp.
quote:Originally posted by Xochiquetzal:quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by *BB*:quote:The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford.
Go to CAB and explain this to them.
ÂĢ20 pounds a week?! How many hours do you work for them hun, whether or not you get paid at this point! Is there a minimum payment issue here? The CAB would be the very folk to go to either way.
I only work about 4 hours a week, but it's all I'm allowed according to DWP.
The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford. Frowner
They must know this and are taking advantage. I am in the same boat as you, been ill since 1989 but can't get money off them coz i have money in the bank Just glad that i have enough NI stamps for my full pension when i retire -- if i make it that far 
ps-- I'm 57 on 21st of this month so any donations and/or veggies would be appreciated. 
They must know this and are taking advantage. I am in the same boat as you, been ill since 1989 but can't get money off them coz i have money in the bank Just glad that i have enough NI stamps for my full pension when i retire -- if i make it that far ps-- I'm 57 on 21st of this month so any donations and/or veggies would be appreciated.
But what is your hourly rate then hun? Sorry... you don't have to say... but you should still be paid the minimum rate, which from what you say, you are nowhere near getting. You should still be paid your rate and then have to sort it out with DWP.
quote:Originally posted by Real:
The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford. Frowner
I'm 57 3 weeks later.
Can't help cologne, but surely what they are doing can't be legal.
quote:Originally posted by Xochiquetzal:
But what is your hourly rate then hun? Sorry... you don't have to say... but you should still be paid the minimum rate, which from what you say, you are nowhere near getting. You should still be paid your rate and then have to sort it out with DWP.
Being "freelance" doesn't apply here i think.
quote:Originally posted by Real:quote:Originally posted by robertsam:quote:Originally posted by Real:
I am old enough to remember the strength of the unions... The Miners strike which resulted in power cuts etc; So what happened then--- shut down the pits. That was the start of the end to Union power.
I gave five pounds very week and some groceries I really felt inadequate
I was on a 3 day week then and had to buy loads of candles... Was really scary seeing everything totally black outside at night.
I saw the footage where the police were waving their wage slips at the miners
quote:Cologne The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford
You have to decide what you want to do, only you know your full situation. How much you enjoy your work weighed against need for cash, against being let down by late payment, and the financial problems that can bring.
Is the money worth the problems for you, if it is, then it might be worth fighting for.
As a last resort, repeat last resort, depending on your privacy issues, you could threaten to use the press against them It's not good publicity for a firm to exploit disabled or ill people.
quote:Originally posted by Xochiquetzal:
But what is your hourly rate then hun? Sorry... you don't have to say... but you should still be paid the minimum rate, which from what you say, you are nowhere near getting. You should still be paid your rate and then have to sort it out with DWP.
Xoch, I've had all that argument about minimum wage etc with DWP and it took them 9 months to understand and eventually carry on paying my incapacity. I work by piece work. I read so much, for so much money. It suits me and it suits them. All I'm asking is to be paid at the beginning of the month, so I don't get into trouble with the bank and incur any charges.
quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by Real:
The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford. Frowner
I'm 57 3 weeks later.
and we both like Lemmy. Can't be all that bad then. Still feel really sorry for you hun. quote:Originally posted by Real:
The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford. Frowner
They owe you big time twenty pound is twenty pound
quote:Originally posted by Real:quote:Originally posted by Xochiquetzal:
But what is your hourly rate then hun? Sorry... you don't have to say... but you should still be paid the minimum rate, which from what you say, you are nowhere near getting. You should still be paid your rate and then have to sort it out with DWP.
Being "freelance" doesn't apply here i think.
It does in law Real, as I understand it. Minimum wage is enforceable. And it's certainly worth challenging in this situation.
quote:Originally posted by Real:quote:Originally posted by cologne1:quote:Originally posted by Real:
The problem is I'm ill and have to live on incapacity benefit and I took this job because I'm allowed to earn ÂĢ20 a week, which is what I earn. It wasn't just an 'extra' as his secretary was trying to say today, it's a lifeline, helping with my bills, so I feel like I'm over a barrel. If I complain, I might lose the job, which I can't afford. If I don't, I have to put up with this erratic payment, which I can't afford. Frowner
I'm 57 3 weeks later.
Thanks
I've just put on Motorhead and my neighbours will hate me, but it doesn't happen very often and it's a good plaster.