PayPal Invoice - Non-payer, what can I do?

[angelicwarrior]

Recently, I found a client on a freelance bidding website. I did five articles for him at $25 each and since have sent two invoices. This guy owes me $125 and he is not responding to any emails that I have sent. I know his PayPal email and I would like to get the money that I am owed. I looked into filing a dispute but it appears that is just for items or someone charging your account without permission. This man is under contract and he is violating it, but I do not have the time or the means to take him to court.

Is there any way that I am able to get what I am owed? Is there anything PayPal can do since I went through them to send the invoice and I have documents proving that this person is a delinquent? Any advice would be appreciated.

[skier]

Unfortunately not.

Just because you send someone an invoice does not mean that they have to or required to pay you.  If you did all the work first, you have no leverage unless you have a signed legal contract or work agreement before you begin the project.  At that point, you require a down payment with the balance due at time of delivery.

Regards,

skier

[BigKahuna97]

If this is the line of work you do you should seriously consider usign an escrow service ONLY or requiring payment up front.  The only advice I can give you is to track down his real name and number then start calling him or neighbors trying to contact them and explain why you are trying to contact him. 

[skier]

For future reference, check out the tips here - Use Written Service Contracts for your Clients.

Regards,

skier

[angelicwarrior]

Thanks, guys. I already signed a contract but as I stated, I'm trying to avoid taking this guy to court. I'm going to go through the original website and leave him some very negative feedback. I'm also going to email him every day asking for payment. I found his number too. I guess all I can do is harass him. 

Thanks again.