Dealing with late payments can be stressful, but with a clear, respectful approach, you can maintain professionalism while getting paid. Start by sending a polite reminder the same day, then follow up after two days and again at seven days. If payment is still overdue, escalate the matter after 14 days. A gentle reminder and clear communication help ensure timely payments and protect your cash flow. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if needed to handle difficult clients or bad reviews.