BUSINESS · PAYMENT RECORDS
Bring the position into focus.
When payment is delayed, the first conversation often turns on simple questions: who contracted with whom, what was promised, when payment became due and why the amount is disputed.
Keep the agreement and the working record together
Gather the signed agreement or accepted terms alongside purchase orders, invoices, delivery or completion records and any changes agreed during the work.
Reconcile the amount you are asking for
Set out invoices, payments received and the outstanding balance. Identify any credit, retention or disputed item separately so the discussion begins from a clear account.
Record the reason for delay
Keep the relevant correspondence and payment commitments. Distinguish a disagreement about the work or terms from a delay that has not been explained.
Prepare a short chronology
A dated sequence of the key events helps the team understand the matter without searching through an unstructured file. Include any formal notice or upcoming date that needs attention.
These preparation steps do not determine the merits of a claim. They help make an initial discussion more focused; advice on the appropriate route depends on the particular documents and circumstances.