How to write a late payment email (with templates) (2024)

FAQs

How to write a late payment email (with templates)? ›

A day after the invoice is overdue

Dear [Contact Name], I would like to apologize regarding the delayed payment for invoice [Insert Invoice Number]. We experienced a [payment processing error, administrative issue, etc.] that resulted in a delay in processing this payment.

We have yet to receive payment from yourselves of [amount owed on invoice] in respect of our invoice [invoice reference number] which was due for payment on [date due]. I would be really grateful if you could let me know when we can expect to receive payment. I have attached a copy of the invoice for your reference.

Include as many details as you can regarding the payment, such as the invoice number and amount. As always, continue reminding them of when the due date was, and how overdue they are. However, remain helpful—you never know what they could be going through, or if there was some sort of mix-up.

You might consider writing a goodwill letter if you missed one or more payments due to a medical emergency, a divorce, job loss, or a natural disaster. An issue with mail delivery due to a move could be another valid reason to write a goodwill letter.

Dear [Customer's Name], We regret to inform you that your invoice [Invoice Number] for [Amount Due] is now overdue. Despite our previous reminders, we haven't received your payment yet. Timely payment is crucial for maintaining our business relationship and ensuring uninterrupted service.

One month after the due date

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to urgently remind you about Invoice #[Insert Invoice Number], which remains unpaid despite being due for payment one month ago. As this payment is now significantly overdue, we kindly request your immediate attention to resolve this matter.

How do you apologize for late payment professionally? ›

Writing an “Apologize For a Late Payment” letter is a professional and effective way to express regret for the delay in payment. This letter should include a sincere apology for the delay, a brief explanation of the reason for the delay, and a clear timeline for when the payment will be made.

The payment was due on [Due Date]. We're not aware of any outstanding issues or reasons for non-payment, so we would like to respectfully ask you to make payment as soon as possible. Please let us know when we can expect to receive payment for this invoice. If you have any queries, don't hesitate to let us know.

I'm contacting you in regard to invoice #001. This is a friendly reminder that the payment was due on Thursday, November 30 and is now two weeks past due. Please send payment as soon as possible by check or direct transfer. As per my payment terms, you will be charged a late fee of 2% per month for overdue payment.

Thanking the sender for reaching out and expressing your interest in connecting is good enough if you're responding days or even weeks later. You may even get away with acknowledging the lapsed time, with something along the lines of: Thanks so much for reaching out a few weeks ago!

If a payment is late, don't wait to follow up. Send a quick email, or make a friendly call to find out why payment is delayed. Customers will pay the company demanding payment before they'll pay companies that do nothing. Find out why your customer can't pay on time, and find a solution beneficial to both of you.

Responding to a late payment email involves addressing the issue promptly and professionally. Start by apologizing for the delay and acknowledging any inconvenience caused. Be transparent about the reasons for the late payment, without oversharing personal details.