> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://animal-think-tank.gitbook.io/handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://animal-think-tank.gitbook.io/handbook/guides-for-working-at-att/money/how-to-pay-a-contractor.md).

# How To Pay A Contractor

As a social movement organisation, we don't have the budget of a typical non-profit. Since we want to amass grassroots power, we also strive to ask people to contribute to our work on a voluntary basis as much as possible. 

Sometimes though, it's just necessary to pay someone to carry out contract work for us. Some tips:

* Explore free or cheaper solutions that might yield similar results to working with the contractor<br>
* Ask the contractor if they would be willing to do the work on a voluntary, pro-bono, needs-based or discounted basis<br>
* Seek "out of the box" solutions - for example, could the costliest part of the work be done without too much complication by someone within Animal Think Tank?

### Am I authorised to pay a contractor?

Paying a contractor works just like any normal expenditure. Check out our page on How To Spend Money for more.&#x20;

### What do I need to do when I pay a contractor?

You'll need an invoice from the contractor. Then make the payment as you would any other ATT expense. Read our page on How To Spend Money for more.&#x20;

### Sample Text For Negotiating With Contractors&#x20;

> Hi XXX,
>
> \
> My name's XXX, I'm based in Lancaster, UK at a grassroots organisation called Animal Think Tank which is building a UK-based social movement for Animal Freedom.
>
> I'm writing to you about... \[use this paragraph to talk about the services you're interested in and why you're interested in them. Personalise this to build a connection with the contractor.]
>
> ...We operate like Extinction Rebellion in that we mainly work with others on a pro-bono / volunteer / needs basis. We do this as we know our movement has limited funds, and so our work needs to be grounded in passion and a voluntary ethic to be sustainable. We do recognise though that on occasion buying in professional services is worthwhile.\
> \
> Given this context, I’m wondering if you would help us by \[insert your ask to the contractor here]. Otherwise please let us know what a viable basis might be for you.
>
> Thank you in advance, and I'm really looking forward to chatting further!