Your Top Questions Answered!

At Accounting Girl, we know money questions can pop up at the most random times—usually when you're juggling a million other things. One second you're sending a bill, and the next you're thinking, “Wait… can I pass that credit card fee onto my client?”

We hear you.

In fact, these types of questions come up all the time. So, we’re rounding up some of your most-asked money questions and giving you clear, practical answers you can actually use.

1. Can I Charge My Clients Merchant Service Fees?

Short answer: Yes, but with a few caveats.

When your client pays you via credit card, you get hit with a merchant service fee. These are usually around 2.5–3.5% of the transaction. They are frustrating because they eat into your hard-earned revenue, and there’s no cap to the merchant fee charge. 

Naturally, a lot of business owners wonder, “Can I just pass that fee on to the client?”

The answer is usually yes, but it depends on:

• State laws: Some states restrict or heavily regulate passing on credit card fees (a.k.a. "surcharging"). Be sure to check your state’s rules.

• Credit card company rules: Companies like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express have guidelines around surcharging. Typically, you have to notify the card networks first and display the surcharge clearly at the point of sale.

• Your contracts: Ideally, if you're passing fees to clients, your service agreement should mention it upfront. No surprises = happy clients.

Pro Tip: Instead of calling it a “credit card fee” (which can sound negative), frame it as a “cash discount”. 

For example: "Invoices paid via cash, ACH, or check receive a 3% discount."

This way, you're encouraging clients to use fee-free payment methods without it feeling like a penalty.

Bottom line: You can usually charge merchant fees back to your client, but make sure you're doing it legally, ethically, and with clear communication. And if in doubt? Ask your payment processor for the latest rules in your area.

2. How Do I Get Paid Faster?

The million-dollar question. (Literally.)

Getting paid faster starts before you send an invoice. It’s about setting clear expectations, removing barriers, and making it easy for your clients to pay you.

Here are our best strategies:

1. Set clear payment terms upfront.

Don't wait until after the work is done to talk about payment. Your client should know exactly:

• How much they'll owe

• When they'll owe it

• How they can pay

For example: "Payment is due within 7 days of invoice via credit card, ACH, or check."

2. Shorten your payment window.

Net 30 (payment due 30 days after invoicing) is old-school. Consider using Net 7 or Net 14 terms instead. You’re not a bank, you shouldn’t be financing your clients’ operations!

3. Invoice immediately.

The faster you send your invoice, the faster you’ll get paid. Set a system to invoice as soon as work is complete (or even better, invoice upfront or in stages).

4. Accept multiple payment methods.

Give your clients multiple payment options. Credit card, ACH, online payments, etc. Fewer excuses = faster payments.

5. Automate payment reminders.

Use your accounting software to automatically send friendly reminders when invoices are due or overdue.

6. Consider late fees.

You can legally charge a small late fee if a client doesn’t pay on time. Just make sure this is spelled out in your contract. Sometimes a financial nudge is enough to move things along.

7. Automate Collections

When possible, automate collections by including a payment authorization form with your engagement letter, and include language that allows you to draft fees X days after sending the invoice.

Pro Tip: Offer incentives for early payment. Even a small discount (like 2% off if paid within 5 days) can encourage faster action.

Bottom line: Getting paid faster means setting boundaries early, communicating clearly, and making it easy for clients to do the right thing.

3. How Do I Increase My Fees?

You’ve gained more experience. You’re delivering better results. You're more in demand.

You should absolutely be charging more.

But raising your fees can feel intimidating, especially if you’re worried about scaring off clients. 

Here’s how to do it thoughtfully and confidently:

1. Know your numbers.

Before you raise rates, get crystal clear on:

• How much time you're spending per client/project

• Your overhead costs

• What competitors in your space are charging

You might realize you're way undercharging, and that's not sustainable.

2. Frame it around increased value.

When you communicate a price increase, focus on what your clients are getting, not just what they’re paying.

For example: "Over the past year, I've added [new service/offering/system], allowing me to deliver even faster and higher-quality results. To reflect this increased value, my rates will be updated effective [date]."

3. Give advance notice.

No one likes a surprise price hike. Give your existing clients 30–60 days' notice before the new rates kick in. This shows respect and gives them time to plan.

4. Be ready to lose a few clients. It’ll be okay.

Some clients may not stick around after a price increase. That’s normal! The ones who stay will value your work and pay you what you’re worth.

5. Practice saying your new rate out loud.

Seriously. Confidence is contagious. If you mumble or apologize when quoting your new fee, clients will pick up on your uncertainty. Own it!

Pro Tip: Make pricing reviews part of your regular business cycle. Consider it annually or after completing a major project. That way, raising your rates feels like a natural part of doing business, not a scary one-time event.

Bottom line: Remember, you’re not just charging for your time. You’re charging for your expertise, your creativity, your problem-solving, and the results you deliver. Price yourself accordingly.

You’re Running a Business—Not a Hobby

Asking about merchant fees, faster payments, and raising rates is all part of your role as a business owner.

You deserve to get paid fairly, on time, and in a way that supports your growth. Don’t shy away from these conversations. Get curious. Get clear. And remember, we’re here to help.

At Accounting Girl, we’re here to help you build a law firm that’s profitable and powerful. 

Have more questions? Reach out to us today!