I interviewed a singer-songwriter for an established magazine. My first freelance gig - wanted to make a good impression.

Two weeks after publication, no payment in my bank account.

Me: "Hi, just checking on the timeline for my payment."

Editor: "We have the whole invoicing process under control. Your payment has already been processed."

Me: "When should I expect the deposit?"

Editor: "Within 30 days."

30 days pass, no payment

Me: "Hi, it's been 30 days since you said payment was processed."

No response

Me: "Hello? I'm still waiting for payment on the article that's been published."

Still no response

I hesitated to keep following up because I didn't want to seem annoying and hurt future opportunities. That was three years ago. Still never got paid.