One of the payment options I offer is a retainer package, here I tell you a bit more about what the retainer package is and hopefully help you to decide if it’s the right option for you.
So what is a retainer package?
In a nutshell, a retainer is where you pay in advance for a set number of hours for you and your work each month, guaranteeing my availability.
How does it work?
We discuss your requirements and agree upon a set amount of hours that are reserved and guaranteed for you each month.
The full retainer fee is payable in advance for the month ahead and you pay the full amount whether you use all of your reserved hours or not. It will be your responsibility to ensure that you use your hours. I will of course keep you up to date on the hours you have remaining and also let you know when you are nearing your agreed upon limit.
Is a retainer the right choice for me?
If you know the number of hours you want each month than yes! The retainer option will secure the minimum number of hours you know you need, guaranteed.
The retainer is a set price, and as long as you don’t need additional hours, you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying, helping you to budget and plan ahead.
If you’re not sure about the number of hours you need, I would recommend that you initially take up my pay per hour option, this will give us both a chance to see how long your tasks take and to decide if a retainer option will be a better way forward for you in to the future.
Can I change my retainer hours?
Yes of course. Although retainer packages are better suited to those wanting longer term help, you are able to change the hours you reserve, within the parameters of the retainer agreement.
Can I go over my retainer hours?
Yes you can, but any additional hours are charged at my normal hourly rate and are subject to availability, however I will always do my best to accommodate you.
If you find that you are regularly exceeding your reserved hours, I would recommend discussing an appropriate increase in your retainer package, ensuring that my availability is guaranteed.
Why is the full retainer amount charged if I don’t use all my reserved hours?
The retainer is payable in full as the hours are reserved for you and your work, whether you use them all or not. This means that I’m not able to allocate your reserved hours to other work. You pay your retainer for my guaranteed availability.
There are certain circumstances and/or occasions where I will agree to carry over any unused hours, however this is at my discretion and full details are outlined in the retainer agreement, which you will receive prior to work commencing.
What are the main points I need to know now?
The minimum retainer package is for a 3 month period.
You won’t be able to decrease your retainer hours in the first 3 months and a notice period is required thereafter.
An increase in your retainer hours is subject to availability, however I always do my best to accommodate any increase you need.
You will receive the full retainer agreement to read and sign, prior to any work commencing. The agreement will tell you everything you need to know in more detail.
If you would like to discuss arranging a retainer or would like to ask any questions before deciding, please do get in touch and we can discuss your requirements further.