Tried a kill fee clause on my last 3 contracts. Zero of them paid it.

Added a 25% kill fee if they cancel after I start work. Thought it would protect me. Client cancelled after 2 drafts. Refused to pay. Said it 'wasn't in the spirit of our partnership.' Contract said it clearly but I didn't want to fight over $400. Learned that a clause is only good if you're willing to enforce it. Anyone actually collected on a kill fee?

3 comments

3 Comments

noraroberts5d ago

Nah, I've collected on a few, but only after I made it crystal clear I'd take them to small claims court. Most clients fold once they realize a contract isn't a suggestion. You gotta be willing to burn that bridge if you want the cash.

margaret5515d ago

$400 is a lot but honestly how much time did you lose fighting it versus just moving on? Did you at least try sending one final invoice to collections or just let it drop completely?

-1

xenam845d ago

Honestly I used to be in your camp. I figured $400 wasn't worth the headache and just wrote it off as a life lesson. But then I had a client ghost me on a $350 invoice and it just ate at me. Not even the money itself, but the principle of it. I spent maybe two hours total sending a final notice, then filed a small claims case online for like $50. The guy paid the day before the hearing. That win changed my whole mindset. Now I'll chase anything over $200 because it sets a precedent that I'm not a doormat.