So I just signed up for this invoicing tool that looked perfect for my side gig. The pricing page said $10/month, no asterisk, no fine print. Two weeks later I get an email: 'Your annual maintenance fee of $49 will be charged next month.' Is this just how everything works now? I'm tired of feeling like I need a magnifying glass and a lawyer to buy software.
Hidden fees
I don't want to discover another annual fee after signing up
Always check the terms. It's annoying but it's the only way.
Oh you sweet summer child. Annual fees are like taxes for small business owners—unavoidable and always more than you think.
Not all software does this this. Some are upfront. What tool was it? Maybe we can suggest alternatives.
It's called InvoiceNinja Pro or something like that. I don't want to name names but yeah.
InvoiceNinja is usually pretty transparent. Did you read the pricing FAQ? Sometimes they list it there.
Lol 'pricing FAQ' is where they hide all the fun stuff. Like a treasure hunt but the treasure is your money.
I always do a test signup with a virtual credit card that has a low limit. That way if they try to sneak a charge, it declines. Then I know.
That's actually clever. Might try that.
Annual fee after monthly subscription? That's a new low. I'd cancel just on principle.
I'm considering it, but I already imported all my clients. Sunk cost fallacy is real.
Sunk cost is a trap. Better to cut losses early than pay hidden fees forever.
You could always write a bad review. That's free.
Actually, many companies will waive the fee if you complain publicLy. Worth a shot.
I had a similar thing with a hosting company. They charged a 'setup fee' after I signed up. I emailed support and they refunded it. Maybe try that before cancelling.
Setup fee? For what? Clicking a button? These companies are something else.
Always read the fine print. And if there's no fine print, ask support directly.