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5 Free Overdue Invoice Email Templates

Copy-paste email templates that actually get you paid. From friendly first reminders to formal final notices—we've got you covered.

Why Good Email Copy Matters

The difference between getting paid and not often comes down to how you ask. A well-written payment reminder:

  • Maintains your professional reputation
  • Preserves the client relationship
  • Gets results without being aggressive
  • Escalates appropriately as time passes

Use these templates as a starting point, then customize them for your business and client relationships.

Template 1: Friendly First Reminder

3 Days OverdueWarm & Understanding

Perfect for the first touchpoint. Assumes the client simply forgot or missed the invoice.

Subject Line:
Quick reminder: Invoice #[NUMBER] is due
Email Body:
Hi [CLIENT NAME], I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to send a quick reminder that Invoice #[NUMBER] for [AMOUNT] was due on [DUE DATE]. I understand things get busy, so no worries if this slipped through the cracks. You can view and pay the invoice here: [PAYMENT LINK] If you've already sent payment, please disregard this message—and thank you! Let me know if you have any questions. Best, [YOUR NAME]
Tips for this template:
  • Keep the tone casual and understanding
  • Assume positive intent—they probably just forgot
  • Include the payment link to make it easy
  • Leave the door open for questions

Template 2: Professional Follow-up

7 Days OverdueProfessional & Direct

A more direct reminder while maintaining professionalism. References the previous reminder.

Subject Line:
Following up: Invoice #[NUMBER] - 7 days overdue
Email Body:
Hi [CLIENT NAME], I'm following up on my previous email regarding Invoice #[NUMBER] for [AMOUNT], which was due on [DUE DATE]. I wanted to check if there are any issues with the invoice or if you need any additional information from my end. I'm happy to answer any questions you might have. For your convenience, here's the payment link: [PAYMENT LINK] Could you please let me know when I can expect payment, or if there's anything holding things up? Thank you for your attention to this matter. Best regards, [YOUR NAME]
Tips for this template:
  • Reference the previous reminder
  • Ask if there are any issues
  • Request a timeline for payment
  • Remain professional but more direct

Template 3: Firm but Fair

14 Days OverdueFirm & Clear

Sets clear expectations while maintaining the relationship. Mentions potential consequences.

Subject Line:
Urgent: Invoice #[NUMBER] is 14 days overdue
Email Body:
Hi [CLIENT NAME], I'm reaching out regarding Invoice #[NUMBER] for [AMOUNT], which is now 14 days past the due date of [DUE DATE]. I've sent a couple of reminders previously and haven't heard back, so I wanted to ensure there isn't a problem I'm not aware of. To avoid any disruption to our working relationship, I'd appreciate if you could: 1. Process payment at your earliest convenience: [PAYMENT LINK] 2. Or let me know if there's an issue we need to discuss Please respond to this email within the next 3 business days so we can resolve this matter. Thank you for your prompt attention. Regards, [YOUR NAME]
Tips for this template:
  • Be clear about the overdue status
  • Set a specific deadline for response
  • Hint at potential consequences without threatening
  • Give them an out if there's a genuine issue

Template 4: Final Notice

30 Days OverdueFormal & Serious

A formal notice before escalation. States consequences clearly while leaving room for resolution.

Subject Line:
Final Notice: Invoice #[NUMBER] - Immediate Action Required
Email Body:
Dear [CLIENT NAME], This is a final notice regarding Invoice #[NUMBER] for [AMOUNT], which has been outstanding since [DUE DATE]—now 30 days overdue. Despite multiple previous reminders, I have not received payment or a response. I value our business relationship and would like to resolve this matter amicably. However, if payment is not received within 7 days of this notice, I will need to: - Suspend any ongoing work - Consider referring this matter to a collections agency - Assess late payment fees as outlined in our agreement To resolve this immediately, please pay here: [PAYMENT LINK] If there are circumstances preventing payment, please contact me directly at [YOUR PHONE/EMAIL] so we can discuss options. I hope we can resolve this matter promptly. Sincerely, [YOUR NAME] [YOUR BUSINESS NAME]
Tips for this template:
  • Use formal language ("Dear" instead of "Hi")
  • State specific consequences
  • Give a clear deadline
  • Still offer a path to resolution
  • Include full contact information

Template 5: Payment Plan Offer

45+ Days OverdueSolution-Oriented

For long-overdue invoices where the client may be having financial difficulties. Offers flexibility.

Subject Line:
Let's work together: Invoice #[NUMBER] payment options
Email Body:
Hi [CLIENT NAME], I'm reaching out about Invoice #[NUMBER] for [AMOUNT], which has been outstanding for over 45 days. I understand that sometimes cash flow challenges arise, and I'd rather work with you to find a solution than see our relationship end on a difficult note. If paying the full amount right now isn't possible, I'm open to discussing: - A payment plan (e.g., 2-3 monthly installments) - A slightly extended deadline with a firm commitment - Alternative payment methods if that helps Please let me know what would work best for your situation. I'm confident we can find a solution that works for both of us. You can reach me directly at [YOUR PHONE] or reply to this email. Looking forward to hearing from you. Best, [YOUR NAME]
Tips for this template:
  • Show empathy for potential difficulties
  • Offer concrete alternatives
  • Make it easy for them to respond
  • Focus on maintaining the relationship
  • Be flexible but set boundaries

Tired of Sending These Manually?

Remitae sends professional payment reminders automatically on your schedule. Set it up once, never write another reminder email again.

General Tips for Payment Reminders

Always include the basics

Invoice number, amount, due date, and payment link should be in every reminder.

Escalate gradually

Start friendly and increase firmness over time. Never start with a final notice.

Make payment easy

Include a direct payment link. Every extra step reduces payment likelihood.

Leave room for dialogue

Sometimes clients have legitimate issues. Give them a way to respond.