Effective Immediately
Internal Use Only – Not Client Facing
Purpose
To ensure 180BIZ handles payment pauses consistently, sustainably, and with integrity—protecting both the business and member relationships.
Policy Overview
180BIZ no longer offers ongoing or repeat payment pauses. This decision allows the company to remain healthy and continue serving members well long-term.
Payment Pause Policy
Payment pauses are not a standard option.
A one-time, one-month courtesy pause may be granted only at Rick’s discretion.
Any approved pause must be clearly communicated as the final pause.
No extensions, repeat pauses, partial payments, or reductions are permitted.
All paused accounts must be documented in the CRM.
Existing Paused Members
Members currently on pause will be returned to active billing.
Advance notice must be provided via approved text and/or email.
Pauses may not be extended for any reason.
Team Guidelines
Do not explain internal finances or past exceptions.
Do not negotiate or imply flexibility.
Use approved scripts only.
Compassion is shown through clarity and consistency, not exceptions.
If a Member Pushes Back
Use calm, steady language. Do not debate or justify.
Approved responses include:
“I understand why you’re asking, and I’m not able to extend the pause.”
“In the past we handled this differently, and this is part of a change we’ve made.”
“My answer isn’t changing, and I wanted to be clear with you.”
If pressure continues, repeat the boundary once and end the conversation.
Membership Exit Option
If a member cannot continue:
Offer a clean exit without guilt or pressure.
Rejoining later is allowed if applicable to the program.
CRM NOTE TEMPLATE (REQUIRED)
Title: Payment Pause – Final Courtesy
Note Body:
One-time, one-month payment pause approved by Rick.
Member informed this is the final pause and that future pauses are not available.
Billing scheduled to resume on: [date].
Member acknowledged policy change.
Handled by: [Name]
Date logged: [date]
MEMBERSHIP EXIT SCRIPT (TEXT OR EMAIL)
I understand where you’re at. If continuing right now doesn’t make sense, it’s okay to step away. When the timing is better, you’re welcome to reach back out and see what options are available then. I appreciate the time you’ve been with us.
Final Reminder to Team
Consistency protects relationships.
Clarity prevents resentment.
Boundaries keep 180BIZ healthy.
If a situation feels unclear, escalate to Rick before responding.
Email for Unpausing Existing Members Who Are Currently Paused
Subject: Your 180BIZ Membership Update
Hi [Name],
I wanted to personally reach out regarding your 180BIZ membership.
Your account has been paused since [date] and is set to resume on [date].
In the past, we've handled payment pauses differently.
I want to be transparent about a change on our end. As 180BIZ has grown, I’m having to set clearer boundaries to keep the business healthy and ensure that my team and I can continue showing up fully for our members. Because of that, we’re no longer able to continue or extend payment pauses going forward.
I wanted to communicate this clearly and ahead of time, rather than letting it come as a surprise. If you have questions or need clarity around your membership, feel free to reach out.
I appreciate you and value the time you’ve been with us.
Blessings!
Rick
180BIZ Payment Pause Decision Tree
