I've done some checks. You can ask the client to give you a GIFT in Amazon vouchers. Provided you can't exchange in cash it's totally cash free.

Quote from: Gypsy on 11 February 2016, 09:38:11 am

Well, I emailed him to say if I do agree to arrange another meeting I shall require the full amount to be paid upfront in the form of Amazon vouchers.

His response?

'When you say Amazon vouchers do you mean the full amount?'

He's obviously not a full shilling. No one could be that thick without having something wrong with them.

So I have blocked him from every possible source of communication. Thank God for that! 

Yeah I've had a few responses from clients who haven't understood deposits, a few thought that it was an additional charge - that they'd giving me the full fee when I arrived. But yes if someone is nervous that's fair enough, but he sounds as if he'd not be able to get to the door without doing something daft.

I've already discussed my ways of working regarding deposits, so it's not as if I haven't explained the full process. If he still can't or won't understand the instructions when they are in black and white then there's no hope for him .

If they're a deposit on your booking fee, then of course they're income.

I mean, if you wanted to pocket the cash they give you, it's not like HMRC will know so I don't see the point of this debate.

I'm sure nobody on here would pocket the cash.

But what difference does it make what form it is in? Cash, cheque, postal order, amazon voucher - it's all income, thus needs to be declared.

So if a punter gives you a bottle of 50 pound perfume you would declare that?

Quote from: KayHerts on 11 February 2016, 07:34:03 pm

But what difference does it make what form it is in? Cash, cheque, postal order, amazon voucher - it's all income, thus needs to be declared.

So if a punter gives you a bottle of 50 pound perfume you would declare that?

Yes you are supposed to put it on your accounts as a gift.  As it can be resold or returned to shop.  Only ones you don't have to declare are consumables, food, chocolate, fresh flowers.  Gifts are taxable, check with your accountant and hmrc.

Back on topic, no I wouldn't let a look and go/walkout have another appointment.  In my view he's come to scope the place out for malicious purposes and comes back as he's planned something dodgy.  Yes I will get the odd genuine one who I turn down but rather be safe than sorry later.