A strong, regular client base is one way to ensure enough work. I like to have at least three or four regular clients. Yeah, it gets hectic at times. But if one client pulls the plug, I have three to fall back on.

Although multiple clients provide a sense of security, it can be difficult to keep up with varying payment schedules. Some clients pay every week, bi-weekly, or once a month. Likewise, clients have different preferred methods of payment. You may be able to negotiate a payment method. But in most cases, the client will decide a payment method for you, in which you can either accept or deny the assignment.

Shai Coggins from Just Make Money Online offers a list of five online payment systems for telecommuters. Paypal is my personal favorite. It’s quick, easy….and with my Paypal debit card, I can immediately access funds in my account. Yeah, it sucks when a client pays with a credit card. If you haven’t noticed, Paypal keeps approximately 3.5% of each credit card payment. I guess it’s a small price to pay. This way, I don’t have to stalk the mailman.

I realize the pros to paper checks. This method is easier for some companies. Telecommuters get paid the same time as on-site employees, and the payroll clerk doesn’t have to manage multiple payment methods. Plus, paper checks allow for easy record keeping. Still, I’ll take modern technology over paper any day. Electronic payments eliminate weekly bank trips. I have a busy schedule, and my sanity depends heavily on keeping minimum items on my daily to-do-list.

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