Seven simple ways to get paid on time without chasing customers

Running a business in Nigeria isn’t just about providing quality products or services. It’s also about making sure you get paid on time. 

Too often, business owners find themselves chasing payments, sending repeated reminders, and struggling with cash flow gaps. 

According to a PwC report, 48 percent of Nigerian SMEs experience delayed payments, which can disrupt operations, affect salaries, and slow down business growth.

But the real cost of these delays isn’t just the stress of waiting. It’s the uncertainty it creates. Businesses struggle to plan ahead, restock inventory, pay workers, or even keep the lights on. Without predictable payments, expansion is nearly impossible, and owners are left firefighting short-term financial struggles rather than focusing on growth.

If you’re tired of chasing customers for money, here are seven simple ways to ensure you get paid on time—without the stress. The seventh tip includes a newly unveiled tech tool.

1. Set Clear Payment Terms from the Start

One of the biggest reasons payments are delayed is because customers aren’t sure when or how to pay. Avoid this by clearly outlining payment terms before any transaction. Let customers know the exact due date, acceptable payment methods, and any penalties for late payments. For businesses offering services, a simple invoice with clear terms helps. If you run a school, cooperative, or subscription-based service, structuring payments with due dates reduces confusion. When expectations are clear, payments are more likely to come in on time.

2. Request Upfront or Part Payments

Rather than waiting until the end of a service period to get paid, consider requesting a percentage of the payment upfront. This ensures that customers are financially committed from the start. For example, if you run a catering business, you can require 50 percent of the payment before sourcing ingredients. Schools can structure fees into manageable installment plans to encourage parents to pay in advance. When customers have already invested in your service, they are more likely to complete payments on time.

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3. Automate Payment Reminders

People get busy, and sometimes, late payments are due to forgetfulness rather than unwillingness to pay. Sending reminders before due dates can prevent this. Instead of calling each customer individually, use automated reminders via SMS, WhatsApp, or email. For instance, a gym owner can schedule monthly reminders for members before their subscription renewal. Cooperatives collecting monthly contributions can send automatic alerts to remind members of upcoming payments. A simple nudge at the right time can make all the difference.

4. Reward Reliable Customers

Sometimes, the best way to encourage timely payments is to reward the customers who consistently pay on time. This creates an incentive for others to follow suit while reinforcing good payment habits. For example, a school could offer early payment discounts for parents who settle fees before term starts. A business that provides services on credit could prioritise loyal customers for special deals or extended services. When customers know there’s a benefit to paying on time, they’re more likely to make it a habit.

5. Offer Discounts for Early Payments

Everyone loves a good deal, and small incentives can go a long way in encouraging customers to pay on time. Consider offering a small discount for customers who pay early. For example, a school can offer a 5% discount on fees paid before the term starts. Landlords can offer a slight reduction on rent if tenants pay before the due date. Small rewards create urgency, motivating customers to settle payments quickly.

6. Enforce Late Payment Penalties (But Politely)

While incentives encourage early payments, penalties discourage late ones. Establishing a small late fee can push customers to prioritise your payment over others. However, the key is to communicate it upfront and enforce it politely. For instance, a tailor can state that late balance payments will result in an extra charge per day. A cooperative can apply an administrative fee for overdue contributions. Many businesses use “grace periods” before applying penalties to give customers a fair chance. It’s about striking a balance between being firm and maintaining good customer relationships.

7. Use PaywithAccount to Automate and Secure Your Payments

Even with all the right steps in place, managing collections manually can still be time-consuming and stressful. That’s why OnePipe launched PaywithAccount two weeks ago – to help Nigerian businesses get paid on time without the hassle. PaywithAccount allows businesses to automate payments, ensuring funds are collected directly from customer accounts without the need for follow-ups. This means fewer delays, predictable cash flow, and no more awkward reminders. By eliminating the inefficiencies of traditional payment methods, businesses can focus on what truly matters – growth and customer satisfaction.

Whether you run a school, a cooperative, a gym, or any business that relies on scheduled payments, PaywithAccount simplifies collections and provides peace of mind. Learn more at paywithaccount.com/signup.

In conclusion, late payments can be frustrating, but they don’t have to be the norm. By setting clear expectations, offering flexible options, and using the right tools, you can ensure steady cash flow without stress.

The most successful businesses don’t waste time running after payments—they set up systems that make payments run smoothly. With the right strategy in place, you can focus less on collecting money and more on growing your business.