Late or non-payment significantly impacts freelancers, causing substantial financial difficulties, including trouble paying bills and covering business expenses, potentially leading to business closure.

This also creates considerable mental health stress, reducing confidence and blurring work-life boundaries.

Time is wasted chasing payments, impacting productivity.

A gender disparity exists, with female freelancers experiencing late payments more often.

The text concludes by suggesting preventive measures like clear contracts and proactive communication to mitigate these issues.