Synopsis:  Order from client for a state we don't cover: Colorado.  Okay, find someone. Linda got hold of someone and unbeknownst to me, told him in their conversation our pay policy.  He said he'd get right on the search. As a follow-up, I thanked him via email and advised of our pay policy:  that we pay mid-month for all work done the prior calendar month and if he'd like, I could provide payment references and I asked for his pricing/coverage, W9 & dec page.  He sent pricing immediately.  Few days go by, he doesn't respond to requests for ETA then late last night I get an email with an attachment so I emailed the client to tell them it was in and they'd have it first thing this morning.

This morning I read the email which states he's attached the requested docs (W9 & E/O).  His message states the order is complete and that as soon as I send payment THROUGH PAYPAL, he'll release the order.  Note - I did not bid on this completed search on eBay.

I'm no attorney but I would take his acceptance of the order as tacit agreement to our payment terms - I sent it in writing.  If you require up-front payment, say so.  It's not uncommon and I completely understand and would get a check out immediately.  But to accept the order then demand an unconventional form of payment after you've done the work?  Well, you just p***ed off a potential new good-paying client who is expanding into your area.  You've done the work but are holding it hostage as though you're dealing with someone who's owed you big bucks.  Really, now the ONLY two things I can guarantee are:  No search, no pay OR you turn it over and I'll send a check out today (which you would have had by now had you stated up front you required it).

If he dares post here that we didn't pay, or reviews us negatively, his company is getting lambasted over their unprofessional means of doing business just as publicly.

Rant over, comments welcome.  Happy &*%%$&^ Friday.  Or TGI(*%&$$F I guess!