>Hello Foxperts,
>
>A acquaintance has referred me to three clients which has resulted in a decent amount of billable hours over the past several months. I can only hope to return the favor.
>
>Have you ever paid another person for a referral, either a flat amount or an ongoing commission? If so, how much?

Hi Randy,
most of our clients become acquaintances after some more years servicing.
Usually satisfied clients refer us to their friends/partners, because they are sure that we can help them providing quality job.
We do not pay for that kind of referring. This is part of the game. They know that making more money we will be able to provide better services and will not disappear.
But we have partners, which recommend us as reliable software vendor. This is cash register and PC hardware suppliers. They receive 5-10% commission for this service.
We have partners which work as on-site project managers. They contact directly with customer and in this case the payment is different. Your case is different.
HTH