Someone refuses to pay at my parent's nail shop, what action can be done to prevent this in the future?

The reason this question has come up is because a lady came in and got her nails done and other things, something worth around $80. When she finished, she was expected to pay, however she said she does not have any money on her, and she said she must go to the mall or an ATM to get money, and she will be right back. So the employees asked for ID and she said she had none, and she also said she had no information on her. So, because it wouldn't be right to hold someone against their will, they let her go not knowing what to do, and she never came back. What can one do to prevent this in the future?Someone refuses to pay at my parent's nail shop, what action can be done to prevent this in the future?
When they make their appointment get their full name and a phone number - then you have a name and number to track them down at and file a small claims or report to the police. If they are walk - ins have every one fill out a client card with name, phone and address. Or just get everyone to fill out a new client card. If they are reluctant - get payment up front. or try entice them into providing a contact number by holding a draw each month for a free mani or pedi.Someone refuses to pay at my parent's nail shop, what action can be done to prevent this in the future?
Call the police:





Theft of services or theft by false pretenses.





You have the right to detain someone who you believe has stolen from your business. Stores do it all the time for shoplifters.





I would have followed her out and gotten her vehicle information and license. It's not much, but it would have given you something to give to the police.





Also, if she doesn't intend to drive to the ATM, ask to hold her car keys or something else of value to her.





If they seem to resist that... call the cops.
You call the police. Give a description of the person. She committed fraud and intent to defraud. She had no plans to pay. By letting her leave, you literally let her get away with it. She'll do it again. At least if you report it, if she gets caught at another store, you'll be able to see her get arrested and insist on restitution.
well do u guys take credit cards?? if she was capable of going ot the atm and getting money than she had her credit card. u could also make people pay up front. well i wish ur families shop the best of luck!! oh and if she ever comes back again u guys hae 2 make sure u dont let her get away with tht one and charge her for tht $80.
Call the police immediately if something like that should happen again. That customer is a criminal.
Make people pay up front. Or ask to hold their driver's license until they return with the money. Personally I'd go with the first option: pay first.

scars