bw100 - 7:08 pm on May 20, 2011 (gmt 0)

when you are paid by an advertiser directly or by an ad agency, how are you paid? Is it by check?

First things first, let's make the sale ... BUT ... you are right, let's be aware of payment methods, terms and conditions. You may wish to consider developing your preferences: maybe, electronic invoicing, terms of net 30 days, payment methods of paypal, ACH funds transfer, credit card payment, etc. Then, work in some flexibility with the invoicing and payment methods. There's nothing wrong with a check. But, a thirty-day payment is a pipe-dream. [You will invoice the agency,and the agency will invoice the client. Then, the client will pay the agency, and the agency will pay you. Think this will happen in 30 days? 60 days?(Maybe)]. Now you are involved in book-keeping, collections, etc. Who knew things could be so complicated? This is business reality. (Biting my tongue, and tasting the blood) ... this is where advertising networks of any name or type have a value,since many of them will absorb some of that float,or at least control it without any effort one your part. Sure, you give up some earned value ... but you get compensated more quickly. Be sure to read the contracts carefully, and keep copies of what you agree to (electronic and paper, backed up).