Getting Clients To Pay

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I freelance web design and host websites, as well as do some graphic work, etc...the biggest problem I have encountered as a freelancer, is getting clients to cough up the money when the job is done. After the first couple times it happened, I began to ask for half of my initial estimate up front. That worked a little better, but then had trouble getting the remainder from a couple clients. (Mind you, these are successful small-town business owners for the most part, and NOT hurting for money.) They're always very happy with the work I provide, they're just....I guess...they're just cheap. They seem to think I should work for free, or add this, add that, and they should not have to pay for it. I should just "donate" it, or give them a special cut rate. (I've actually HAD clients ask me to DONATE my time to them, their business, their project, etc.) I earn my living off my freelance work. They either don't realize or don't care that if I don't get paid, then I don't' eat and get to live in the dark. Its very frustrating. Hosting is another beast altogether. I prefer lump sum, yearly payments as it is usually less hassle for everyone (me & client alike). But a few accounts insist on monthly billing. Generally these are the hosting clients that don't pay on time, are always a month or so late, etc...and think its not a big deal. I don't want to drop or lose hosting/design clients (I can't afford to!), but I also don't like to play cat and mouse games with my livelihood and let them walk all over me. What methods do you use in your own freelance business to ensure timely payment from your clients? Gentle nudging emails? Letters? Phone calls? Collection agencies? Teamsters with baseball bats? (& yes that last one is a joke)