Setting Clear Expectations
Always have a written agreement
Before you start any project, make sure you and your client agree on the key terms in writing. This does not have to be a complex legal contract — a clear email exchange or a simple agreement document works. At minimum, cover:- Scope of work — What exactly will you deliver?
- Timeline — When will the work be completed?
- Rate or price — Hourly rate, fixed price, or other arrangement
- Payment terms — When and how will you be paid?
- What is not included — Explicitly stating what falls outside the scope prevents misunderstandings
Communicate regularly
Keep your client updated on progress, especially for longer projects. Brief weekly updates build trust and catch misalignments early. It is much easier to course-correct mid-project than after delivery.Document changes
If the scope changes during a project (and it often does), document the change and any impact on price or timeline. A quick email saying “As discussed, we are adding X, which will add Y hours at our agreed rate” protects both parties.Payment Terms
Standard terms in Sweden
Net 30 (30 dagar netto) is the most common payment term in Sweden for B2B transactions. This means the client has 30 days from the invoice date to pay. Other common options:| Payment term | When to use |
|---|---|
| 10 days | When you want fast payment, common for smaller invoices |
| 15 days | A middle ground, often used by consultants |
| 20 days | Slightly shorter than standard |
| 30 days | The Swedish standard for most B2B transactions |
Invoicing promptly
Invoice as soon as the work is completed (or at agreed intervals for ongoing work). Delays in sending invoices lead to delays in getting paid. Many freelancers invoice monthly, but there is no rule against invoicing more frequently.Handling Late Payments
Late payments are unfortunately common. Swedish law gives you clear rights to deal with them.Step 1: Friendly reminder
If the due date passes, start with a friendly reminder. Sometimes invoices simply get lost or overlooked. A polite email or phone call often resolves the issue.Step 2: Formal payment reminder (Betalningspaminnelse)
If the friendly reminder does not work, send a formal payment reminder. Under the Inkassolagen (1974:182), you may add a reminder fee of 60 SEK to the outstanding amount.Step 3: Late payment interest (Drojsmalsranta)
According to the Rantelagen (1975:635), you are entitled to charge late payment interest from the day after the original due date. The rate is: Riksbanken’s reference rate (referensrantan) + 8 percentage points You do not need a prior agreement with the client to charge this — it is your legal right. However, it is good practice to mention it on your invoices.Step 4: Debt collection
If the client still does not pay, you have two main options:- Kronofogden’s order for payment (betalningsforelaggande) — You apply to the Swedish Enforcement Authority. If the client does not dispute the claim, Kronofogden can enforce payment.
- Debt collection agency (inkassobolag) — A third party handles the collection process on your behalf, typically for a percentage of the recovered amount.
Currency Considerations for International Clients
If you work with clients outside Sweden, keep these points in mind:Invoice currency
You can invoice in any currency (SEK, EUR, USD, etc.). However, your bookkeeping must be in SEK, so foreign currency invoices need to be converted at the exchange rate on the transaction date.VAT for international clients
VAT rules differ for international transactions. For EU B2B services, reverse charge typically applies (no VAT on your invoice). For clients outside the EU, services are generally VAT-exempt. See the VAT/Moms and Reverse Charge VAT articles for details.Payment methods
International bank transfers can be slow and expensive. Consider offering multiple payment options and factor in any bank fees when setting your rates for international work.Building Long-Term Relationships
Be reliable
Deliver on time and communicate proactively if deadlines are at risk. Reliability is the foundation of repeat business.Be transparent about pricing
Surprises on invoices damage trust. If a project is taking longer than expected, let the client know before the invoice arrives.Ask for feedback
After completing a project, ask your client what went well and what could be improved. This shows professionalism and helps you improve your service.Keep records
Maintain good records of all client interactions, agreements, and deliverables in Aourly. This protects you in disputes and makes it easy to pick up where you left off when a client returns.Summary
- Always have a written agreement covering scope, rate, timeline, and payment terms
- Net 30 is the standard payment term in Sweden
- Invoice promptly — delayed invoicing means delayed payment
- You have legal rights to charge a 60 SEK reminder fee and late payment interest (reference rate + 8%)
- For international clients, consider currency, VAT rules, and payment methods
- Reliability, transparency, and good communication build long-term client relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
What payment terms should I use?
What payment terms should I use?
Net 30 (30 dagar netto) is the standard in Sweden. You can use shorter terms like 10 or 15 days if you prefer faster payment, but agree on this with your client upfront.
Can I charge interest on late payments without a contract?
Can I charge interest on late payments without a contract?
Yes. Under Räntelagen, you are entitled to late payment interest (referensräntan + 8 percentage points) even without a prior agreement. However, stating it on your invoice is good practice.
What should I do if a client refuses to pay?
What should I do if a client refuses to pay?
Start with a friendly reminder, then a formal payment reminder (betalningspåminnelse) with the 60 SEK fee. If that fails, you can use Kronofogden’s order for payment (betalningsföreläggande) or a debt collection agency.