Client refusing to provide PO number

Hi,
First of all, thanks for accepting me to this group.

I have a client I have worked with for a long time - my best client - who has recently said I must provide a PO number for every job I do for them on my invoices. So far, the various account handlers at this client have been providing a PO number during the course of the project or at the end. However, there is one who is ignoring my emails requesting the PO number. The project took several days and was finished several weeks ago, but I haven't billed for it, as I've been told I must have the PO number. I have flagged up the problem to the Traffic Manager (to whom I send my invoices), but nothing has happened.

Does anyone know where I stand legally? Surely if the work's been done and accepted they have to pay for it? Can/Should I invoice anyway? If anyone can point me to any official information on this matter, I'd be really grateful.

 

Dear P Lyon,
Freelance UK arranged for an expert to answer your question - on its sister site ContractorUK:
https://www.contractoruk.com/money/can_i_submit_invoice_without_po_number.html
Hope the guidance helps?!


__

Moore News Ltd - expert care for your editorial needs.

 

Lupita - thank you, that's fantastic! I wasn't expecting to get an expert's personal response! Definitely clears up the issue. Thanks again.

 

Glad it helped! Always happy to consider queries for publication if there's something you're stuck on or up against -- you can reach me on -- simon@moorenewsltd.com. Or if FreelanceUK-specific, simon@freelanceuk.com.

 

Hello - and thank you! That's really useful, I have a similar but a bit different issue.

I submitted invoices (as requested) before a PO was raised, however the PO took ages to come through - over the 30 standard days, and now they are saying that the clock starts on an invoice when a 'correct' invoice with PO is submitted, rather than when I sent it in. That can't be right can it? They also 'don't pay late fees'. I can't find any legislation to say they can opt out, just stuff saying what we are entitled to do. Do you have any wisdom on this?

 

Elorana,
FreelanceUK arranged for an expert to answer your question!
Click below for the resulting article, published on the FreelanceUK frontpage!
https://www.freelanceuk.com/money/where-do-self-employed-stand-delays-purchase-orders-clients.shtml

__

Moore News Ltd - expert care for your editorial needs.