This is a money guide.
Use it to charge fair, get paid fast, and avoid drama.
What this guide covers
- How pay works.
- When to take payment.
- Deposits and minimums.
- Tip prompts that are not pushy.
- How to avoid chargebacks.
How pay works (simple)
- Cash — fast, no fees.
- Card / tap to pay — easy for clients. Small fee.
- Invoice — email link to pay online.
- Checks — use for companies only.
Rule: say what you take before the job starts.
When to take payment
- Curbside: pay before loading.
- Standard pickup: pay after you confirm final price on site.
- Big jobs (½ load+): 25–50% deposit to hold the slot.
- Contracts: net 15–30 with late fee.
Deposits and minimums
- Set a clear minimum price.
- Take a deposit for long drives, stairs, or extra heavy work.
- Share your refund rules in one line:
“Deposit is refundable with 24 hours’ notice.”
Tip prompts (not awkward)
- After the sweep-up: “All set! If we earned a tip, thanks so much.”
- Use a card reader with tip on screen.
- Never push. Service first.
Avoid chargebacks
- Confirm the price in writing (text) before lifting.
- Take photos before and after.
- Use itemized receipts.
- Match the name on the card to the person on site.
- For invoices, add business name + phone on the receipt.
Simple scripts
Price confirm
“We’re at ¼ load for $___. Good to start?”
Payment on site
“We take cash or card. I can run it now and send the receipt.”
Deposit script
“To hold Friday 10–12, the $___ deposit locks your slot. Refundable with 24 hours’ notice.”
Tools that make it easy
- Tap to pay on your phone.
- Card reader with tips.
- Online invoice link with pay-now button.
- Saved items (load tiers, stairs fee) to fill receipts fast.
Quick policy sheet (copy this)
- Payment: cash, card, or invoice.
- Deposit: 25–50% on big jobs.
- Cancel: 24 hours for full refund.
- Extras: stairs, long carry, heavy items listed up front.
- No hazardous waste. We can refer you.
People also ask (quick answers)
How do you get paid for junk removal?
Confirm the price in writing, do the job, and take cash or card on site.
Do you charge by load or item?
Use load tiers with a clear minimum. Add small fees for stairs or heavy items.
Should I take deposits?
Yes, for big jobs or long drives. 25–50% is common.
When do I ask for payment?
Curbside before loading. Otherwise, right after you confirm final price on site.
How do I stop chargebacks?
Text price confirm, take before/after photos, and send an itemized receipt.
See more tactics in the complete junk removal jobs guide.
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