Let’s be real: landing new clients feels great, and we hustle hard to deliver exactly what they want. But then comes the part nobody likes—chasing down payment for work already done. Today, I’m staring at five invoices that are six weeks overdue. I love my clients, but collecting payments? That’s a grind, especially for Black entrepreneurs navigating this all-too-common cash flow nightmare.
Here’s the thing: do folks in Accounts Payable really think we’re swimming in cash and can just wait forever to get paid? Meanwhile, mortgage lenders, landlords, and utility companies expect their money on time, every time. So the truth is NO, we CAN’T WAIT. Late payments trigger a domino effect—calls to our own creditors, scrambling to cover bills, and the stress of robbing Peter to pay Paul. If you’ve been there, you know exactly what I mean.
What many vendors don’t get is that the checks we’re waiting on are no different from the checks they count on every two weeks. Imagine checking your bank account and realizing your paycheck hasn’t cleared yet. Then you hear, “Your timesheet’s been submitted; you’ll get paid next week.” Next week rolls around, still no paycheck, and now you’re tiptoeing around your boss, worried about your job. That’s the exact reality for many Black entrepreneurs. We’ve done the work—now pay us.
In 2025, the game has evolved, but the struggle remains. Thankfully, AI and automation tools are here to help us fight back against late payments. Smart invoicing platforms can automate sending invoices, reminders, and even retry failed payments without awkward phone calls. Offering flexible payment options—like installments or early payment discounts—can also speed up cash flow and keep clients happy. And let’s not forget the power of clear, upfront payment terms and contracts that spell out consequences for late payments. Transparency isn’t just good business; it’s survival.
Still, no entrepreneur should have to explain their financial situation just to get paid for services rendered. We deserve respect and prompt payment—period. What’s your take?
Kevin "KevRoss" Ross is a music and radio industry expert. He is a 20 -plus year entrepreneur with the leading most successful industry trade publication and site Radio Facts (www.radiofacts.com). He has also published various books, magazines, performed marketing and promotions for major corporations and recording artists and he is on the advisory board of several industry organizations. This year Ross introduced his non profit organization LOMARI (Leaders of the Music and Recording Industry) to help teach young minority students how to market and manage their music and products.
