Payment reminder emails for unpaid invoices

Most late payments are simply forgotten. A short, polite reminder usually fixes it. Here are three emails you can copy and adjust.

1. Friendly reminder, before the due date

Subject: Invoice INV-0042 due on 14 March

Hi Sam,
A quick reminder that invoice INV-0042 for $1,250.00 is due on 14 March. I've attached it again for convenience. Payment details are at the bottom of the invoice.
Thanks,
Alex

2. Gentle follow-up, just after the due date

Subject: Invoice INV-0042 is now due

Hi Sam,
Invoice INV-0042 for $1,250.00 was due yesterday. Could you let me know when payment is planned? If it's already on its way, thank you and please ignore this message.
Best,
Alex

3. Firm reminder, a week or more overdue

Subject: Overdue: invoice INV-0042

Hi Sam,
Invoice INV-0042 for $1,250.00 is now 8 days overdue. Please arrange payment by Friday, 22 March. If there's a problem with the invoice, reply and I'll sort it out straight away.
Regards,
Alex

Tips that help

• Keep it short and friendly. Assume it was an oversight.
• Always include the invoice number, amount and due date.
• Attach the invoice PDF again.
• With a free account, your dashboard shows which invoices are overdue, and you can resend them in one click.

Questions

When should I send a payment reminder?

A friendly reminder a few days before the due date works well. Send a second one on the day after the due date, and a firmer one a week later.

Should I attach the invoice again?

Yes. Attach the PDF every time so your client doesn't have to search for it.

What if the client still doesn't pay?

Call them, check the invoice reached the right person, and offer a payment plan if needed. If it is still unpaid, look at your local small claims process.