Backround: I have been doing signings for this company for a while, completed their training some time ago when I started. Not a favorite by any means, lowball original offers and always scanbacks but if they come up into my range and it is close by I will do one.
Started getting emails from them that everyone had to do training but since I already had done their training I ignored those messages. Did one signing about 4 months ago, then none for a couple of months and then three in a row, then another a few days ago.
Been super busy and finally got to look at A/R and noticed no payment for the one over 90 days ago. A few emails back and forth and they agreed to pay.
Next email I receive says I haven't done their training and "Last thing we want to do is withhold your upcoming check..." (their exact words) until I do the new training! I sent them a stern but polite response (and did not actually use the word "blackmail") but said there was a word for what they were saying and surely they didn't intend that? I listed all payments due and said I would do the training (again) once I received full payment.
I kind of expected them to say something to the effect we want to keep you as a signing agent, payment will be sent, do the training and we will continue to send you new signings.
Instead they started quoting dates they sent the new training emails, paragraph numbers in each email that said it was required, etc. and we are not going to pay you (for work I have already done!!) until you do the new training!
Now, I can understand a company not sending any NEW assignments until a person has completed some NEW training. But they sent me five assignments and accepted my work while this new training was 'required' by them, and now they are adamant that they are not going to pay me for them?!? They owe me more that $400!
Am I wrong? I have not named any names (yet). |
