G-03 · Guide
Chasing late invoices
Three reminders that get you paid without souring the relationship. Written from a member's request and tested by twelve members.
Day 31: the friendly nudge
"Hi Sam, a quick note that invoice 2026-041 for the October cover (£700) was due yesterday. Could you check it's with accounts? Thanks!"
Day 38: the second reminder
"Hi Sam, invoice 2026-041 is now a week overdue. Could you tell me the date it will be paid? I've attached it again, with my bank details on page 2."
Day 45: the final notice
"Hi Sam, invoice 2026-041 is 15 days overdue. Under the terms we agreed, the licence starts on payment, so the image can't run online until it's paid. Please pay by Friday."
What makes them work
- Write to the person who commissioned you, and copy accounts on the second email.
- Always ask for a date, never "as soon as possible".
- UK businesses can add statutory interest and £40 to £100 compensation on late payments; mention it only at the final notice.
Day 31: the friendly nudge
"Hi Sam, a quick note that invoice 2026-041 for the October cover (£700) was due yesterday. Could you check it's with accounts? Thanks!"
Day 38: the second reminder
"Hi Sam, invoice 2026-041 is now a week overdue. Could you tell me the date it will be paid? I've attached it again, with my bank details on page 2."
Day 45: the final notice
"Hi Sam, invoice 2026-041 is 15 days overdue. Under the terms we agreed, the licence starts on payment, so the image can't run online until it's paid. Please pay by Friday."
What makes them work
- Write to the person who commissioned you, and copy accounts on the second email.
- Always ask for a date, never "as soon as possible".
- UK businesses can add statutory interest and £40 to £100 compensation on late payments; mention it only at the final notice.
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