How to Navigate Payment as a Remote Worker

Table of Contents

• How to get paid as a Remote Worker

• In the case of a delayed payment;

• What if a client ghosts you?

Ever since the pandemic, landing a remote job has been a dream for many. The flexibility that such a work mode gives is the ultimate for a remote worker. But payment, especially in Nigeria, has posed to be a big challenge for many.

After your dream comes true, how do you navigate the fun part – getting the reward of your labor? This article aims to show you just how.

How to get paid as a Remote Worker

The contract

It all starts with a contract. Working remotely doesn’t take away the need for protocol, as a matter of fact, it solidifies it.

The remote work setting has eliminated physical proximity thereby leaving room for uncertainty and miscommunication surrounding the job.

To avoid dispute, a contract should be initiated by one party and signed by the other (usually, it’s the employer that initiates the contract).

The contract must state specific job descriptions, salary, and job terms and conditions.

Remote work payment can only proceed when these parameters are specifically outlined.

If your employer is within the same country as you, a local bank transfer will suffice but if you have a foreign employer, explore any of the following options.

1. Paystack

Paystack was created in 2015 by Nigerian founders and was later acquired by Stripe in 2020. The company provides a safe and reliable means to make money transactions and transfers across Africa.

Paystack is a secure medium of online payment. It uses advanced security technology like encryption and fraud detection. It also provides 24/7 customer support to address issues.

Cons

• Paystack is available in a limited number of countries across Africa. If paystack doesn’t operate in your country or that of your employer. You might have to explore other options.

• Lengthy withdrawal time frame. It can take a few days for the money to move from your paystack account to your local bank account.

1. Payoneer

This online transaction medium was created in 2005 and it has provided a means to make payments across the globe.

Payoneer is highly preferred because it allows freelancers to receive funds in multiple currencies across borders. It also offers fast money transfers and reasonable foreign exchange rates for its users.

Cons

• Payoneer charges a fee for currency conversion or exchange. It could be minor or exorbitant depending on the volume of payment received.

• It is not available in all countries of the world.

1. MoneyGram

Established in 1940, this company has grown to become a provider of easy and accessible online transactions that span international borders. MoneyGram operates in about 200 countries and territories in the world.

It is touted as being a fast and low-cost means to transfer money to any part of the world. It also boasts of physical locations sprinkled around the globe just in case there is a need for physical presence.

Cons

• Unfavorable currency exchange rates

• Transfer fees are higher for smaller transactions

1. TransferWise

Now called Wise, TransferWise is a money transfer platform that offers international transactions in the United States and 70 other countries.

It is touted as having lower costs of transfer when compared to other platforms.

Cons:

• Wise does not accept all currencies

• It operates in a limited number of countries

To use online transfer platforms to receive payment;

• First of all, create an account. Go on the site, enter your personal information and an account would be created for you.

• Proceed to link your newly created online account to your local bank account in order to access wired funds.

• Generate an invoice and forward your account details to your employer.

In the case of a delayed payment;

All you have to do is to send an email to your employer stating the non-disbursement of your pay.

What if a client ghosts you?

The best way to deal with this situation is to avoid it. Before working for any client, do some background research. A good research tip is to google their name alongside the word “scam”.

You can also use neutral third parties like Upwork to get clients. They might take a cut of your pay but that is a small price to pay for the guarantee.

Finally;

While you may possess some level of uncertainty regarding payment for remote work, there are those who have successfully navigated it, and if they can do it, so can you.