Confused- retainer/deposit

[jen]

Had a mum come to see me today wanting one full day and 2 mornings a week for 5 month old baby from 28th August.

We was talking about fees and she said she would want to pay monthly. So i said that i would require a month deposit, i want to work in advance so i have the notice money is there if she ends the contract.

I have been throughly reading the NCMA contract and i now confused about retainers and deposits.

Should i have asked for a retainer fee? or is a months deposit ok? I think the wording on the contract is confusing me.

What does everyone else do who uses the NCMA contracts?

Thanks in advance, Jenny

[lou]

hi jen,
its another one of those things that there is no right answer and its up to you what you are happy with.

personally i would take a months fee as a deposit, like you say then you are covered. I would also personally charge a retainer fee from now until 28th august as you are holding the place for her.
the way i would look at it is someone could ring tomorrow and want a place immedietly and you would have lost out.
Maybe i am a bit hard?
what does everyone else think?

[susan]

I struggled with that to Jen, I ended up charging a full weeks fees though as mum wanted the baby to start week after. If you take a full months fee and say 25% of weekly fee as a ratainer till August that might be ok.... the other ladies with more experience will help you more i'm sure.

xxxx

P.s had a peek at your website looks really good and full of information

[lou]

hi again jen, forgot to say just looked at your website and loved it, started thinking i should have a website, my hubby keeps telling me i should but im blonde and wouldnt know where to start!!!!!!! LOL

[susan]

Hi Lou,

Pauline who administers the forum does website design, she's doing me one have a word with her xxx

[mel]

I think it depends on each individual case and whether you feel you would have been able to fill the place earlier (is there a lot of demand in your area?)

I have a lady coming to sign contracts with me on Sunday and she wants to start her girls in late September as she is returning to work. I have decided to charge her a one off retainer which is non refundable to secure the place.

It actually works out quite well for me as I am happy not to work this summer (DH is a teacher) so will get my last summer hols off.

I think as long as you are clear from the outset what you intend, then there will be no confusion. Do you know what other minders in the area do?

Mel x

[angeldelight]

I agree with everyone else

There is no rule - and if there is you make them !!!!

Yes ask Pauline about the website price is good too
She did mine also

Angel xx