This is a chronic problem for me too.  Though it usually isn't the search fee that my customers have a problem with, it is usually the copy charges.  Our fee schedule states our fees, plus copies.  It seems that some companies, especially those on auto-pay, don't always catch the copy fees.  We clearly mark the fees on the order when they are returned and then we invoice at the month's end.

Often the checks don't match our invoices and we have to call to get it straightened out.  If the balance becomes past due, we simply notify the client we will not complete any further orders until the balance is paid.

Doesn't always work, but I would rather not work with clients that don't pay their full invoices.

Best of luck to you,
Robert A. Franco
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