Independent Contractor not getting paid

[Contract4Hire]

I've read numerous posts about this topic and I have a fairly good idea of what my next steps are; however, I'd like to get some input from others regarding the situation I'm currently in.
I work as an independent contractor for a a company that has setup the contract agreement with a software company.
The software company has stated that they are experiencing some cash flow problems and won't have the means to pay me for another 4 months or so. They are currently behind 2 paychecks. I typically receive my payments twice a month.
I don't feel like doing any more work for them until they catch up and honor the payment cycle.
I'm currently looking for new work but my question is: should I still do work for them, knowing that I won't get paid for another 4 months? I'm leaning towards 'No', but would welcome feedback from others.

[Snoopy1948]

Re: Independent Contractor not getting paid

Hi there

To my mind, and sensibly, working on a 'promised' four month payment delay is worse than a zero hours contract although in this case, you are expected to work on an ongoing basis. Reading between the lines, this company is probably under severe financial pressure and I cannot see any guarantee that you will even get paid in four months time. I would consider it foolish to continue giving this company your professional services for what is effectively free of charge and 'on a promise'. Four months credit is an incredibly long time.

When I was self employed for a period of four years, I was constantly told that you simply cannot survive on promises. Yes, I would cease working but your immediate action depends on whether you can find replacement work, particularly as you have a months outstanding invoices.

[Ripped-Off]

Re: Independent Contractor not getting paid

I agree with Snoopy. You are risking greater financial pressure if they go bump in month 4 and you have been working for free all that time, particularly if there is no incentive for you to wait that long anyway.

If you left now, what are the chances of you getting paid what they already owe you? They may view your refusal as a snub and put your payment to back of the queue.

So your damned if you do and damned if you don't.