Getting Paid as a Freelancer in Ontario

As a freelancer or independent contractor, your clients aren't covered by the Employment Standards Act's wage protections for you. Your protection is a good contract and the right to sue for an unpaid debt.

Before you start

• A short written agreement: the work, deliverables, price, deadlines, payment terms and who owns the work.
• A deposit for larger projects.
• Interest on late payments, only if it is agreed in writing.

Invoices that get paid

• Send them promptly, with the date, description, amount, due date and how to pay.
• Follow up the day after the due date, politely and in writing.

When a client won't pay

1. Send a final reminder, then a formal demand letter with a deadline.
2. Check the limitation period: generally two years from when payment was due.
3. File a Small Claims Court claim, with your agreement, invoices and messages.

Watch out

If you work only for one client, set hours and follow their rules, you may actually be an employee, with rights under the Employment Standards Act.

Sources

• Ontario: suing someone in Small Claims Court
• Limitations Act, 2002

Read next: Interest on unpaid invoices and court judgments

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: A bright home office · Using a calculator beside an invoice.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.