Before paying a sub

Review the admin packet before a subcontractor payment decision.

This checklist helps a contractor organize scope, invoice, document, and punch-list questions before paying a sub. It does not approve payment or determine legal, tax, insurance, lien, or contract obligations.

Checklist

Review facts, owners, and open questions.

01

Invoice match

Compare the invoice to the job, scope notes, agreed rate, change notes, dates, materials, and purchase order if used.

02

Scope status

Confirm for your own records whether work is complete, partially complete, waiting on punch-list items, or disputed.

03

Packet status

Check whether COI, W-9, license notes, contact details, and customer-specific packet questions have an owner.

04

Change-order notes

Separate documented change notes, unresolved requests, and field conversations that need owner review.

05

Lien waiver awareness

Do not generate or interpret lien waivers here. Ask an attorney or GC/customer what is required for the job and location.

06

Payment record path

Use your chosen accounting or banking system for payment records. Do not enter payment details on this guide.

Owner readiness review

Safe output for an owner review.

Ready to ask: a short list of missing invoice, scope, packet, or professional-review questions.
Ready to file: a static note that a document exists in the business system, without copying the document here.
Ready to escalate: topics that need an accountant, attorney, insurance agent, customer, GC, or local authority.