But according to a survey released last month by the New York-based Freelancers Union, about 40% of freelancers had trouble getting paid in 2009. The average amount due? $6,000. And with national unemployment still around 9.7%, it's not like freelancers can just fall back on getting a job.
In addition, half of laid-off positions will go to freelancers and temps in 2010, Littler Mendelson, a San Francisco-based employment law firm with 49 offices nationwide, told the WSJ. This means more potential for paperwork, bills, and payments to get lost in the bureaucracy.
And sadly, freelancers can't turn to federal or state labor departments for help. The only option is to go to small claims court which can cost you a ton in emotional hassle and time spent preparing your case.
On the bright side, the Freelancers Union is taking action into its own hands and created a list of companies who have a reputation for not paying.
What about you, Edsters? Have you ever been stiffed? What did you do to finally get paid? Share your stories in the comments!
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