Why Your Invoices Aren't Getting Paid (And How to Fix It)

Why Your Invoices Aren't Getting Paid (And How to Fix It)

You know what's funny about late payments? Most of the time, it's not because clients don't want to pay—it's because of small mistakes that create huge delays. After 0+ years in B2B collections, I've seen companies waiting 60, 90, even 120 days for payment, all because of issues that could've been fixed in minutes.

I've developed the 4 Keys to Collect the Cash framework to assist businesses like yours to get paid faster. But first, let's look at what's really causing those payment delays.

?? Here's What's Really Happening When Payments Get Delayed:

1?? Your invoice is stuck in approval limbo You sent it to Finance, but the budget owner hasn't approved it. Result? It sits untouched in someone's inbox while you wonder where your money is.

2?? The details don't match their system: Missing Purchase Order/Contract/Account numbers on the Invoice. Item descriptions that don't match with what was purchased. Each mismatch means another delay.

3?? Your Invoice format doesn't fit their process. Many companies have strict requirements for invoice formats. Send it differently? Straight to the rejection pile. Follow the billing instructions.

4?? No one's following up Here's the truth: Submitting an invoice is just the start. Without proper follow-up, it's like throwing your invoice into a black hole.

?? Now, here's how to fix these issues using the 4 Keys to Collect the Cash:

1. Problem Solving: Get Ahead of Issues I recently worked with a client who cut their payment delays in half by simply confirming the right contact person and required details before sending invoices. That's problem-solving in action.
2. Customer Service: Make It Easy to Pay You Think like your client's AP team. Learn their process. Use their preferred format. When you make their job easier, they make paying you a priority.
3. Gratitude: Build Goodwill Last week, an AP clerk told me, "You're the only vendor who ever thanks us." Guess whose invoices she processes first? A simple "thank you" can transform your payment timeline.
4. Relationship Building: Create Champions The difference between getting paid in 30 days versus 90 days often comes down to relationships. Get to know your contacts in Accounts Payable. When issues arise (and they will), you'll have allies ready to assist you Collect the Cash.

?? Ready to Get Paid Faster?

I've seen companies reduce their DSO (Days Sales Outstanding) by 30% using these keys. The solution isn't complicated—it's about being intentional with your approach.

Start by identifying which of these mistakes is causing your biggest delays. Then apply the 4 Keys systematically. You'll be amazed at how quickly things improve.

?? What's your biggest payment delay challenge? Share below, and let's solve it together using the 4 Keys to Collect the Cash.

#CollectTheCash #AccountsReceivable #B2BCollections