Title says almost all. Took a gig, starting on a trial. It was for 5 kids. I told them my normal rate was $12/hour min, they said again, "dont worry, it pays well". After a week, they told me they would give me 1400$ a month... for 200 hours(50 hour work weeks). What?! After taxes it equaled out to under 6/hour when I did the math. For FIVE KIDS(three still in diapers). So I told her I would not be able to continue working for them long-term, that I would finish out what they needed me for and be on my jolly way.

After I worked a few days the second week, she called me on Friday to let me know the kids were sick, not to come in, and that I should come by Monday to pick up my check. I called Sunday to see what time she wanted me over. No answer. Texted her. She texted me back on Monday that they were really busy and she'd give me a call if I could swing by in the evening. That was the last time I heard from her.. I tried calling her, never got a call back. Tuesday sent a text message. No answer. Thursday I sent an email asking if the kids were okay, that I was worried, to please let me know when I could pick up the check. Still no freakin answer.

What do I do? Does it seem to you guys like she is writing me off? Do I just cut my losses? The check would be for about 70 hours, money is super tight right now so to be honest anything would help. I am really hurt that I wasted like 40$ in gas and 70 hours of my time for them to do this to me. Not to mention my car brakes and rotors went out from the added strain from me commuting to work, which is why I really need this check.

Momboss was starting her own business and dadboss worked as a paralegal - You would think they'd know better than to stiff someone on pay! I never dreamed they would do this. I have been very nice in all of my messages so far. My friend told me that she would be barging down their door by now. Do I just cut my losses, keep asking nicely, or start to get mean or pushy?

Thanks in advance for any advice. This has never happened to me before...I don't handle stuff like this well. :( I've been on the verge of an anxiety meltdown for a couple days over this BS!