How to handle an overdue invoice without losing the customer
Most overdue invoices aren't a refusal to pay — they're a forgotten email. A short, soft check-in collects 80% of them without damaging the relationship.
Do this
- Wait until day 14 past due. Earlier feels pushy; later feels desperate.
- Send a one-paragraph email: friendly, no apology, attach the invoice again.
- If no reply in 5 days, pick up the phone. Voice always beats another email at this stage.
- If they're in genuine cash trouble, offer a 2-payment plan in writing — keeps the customer and gets you paid.
Soft Reminder Email Script
Subject: Just a quick check on invoice #[number]
Hi [first name],
Hope you're doing well. Just a friendly nudge that invoice #[number] from [date] is still showing as open on our side — wanted to flag it in case it slipped through.
I've re-attached it here for convenience. If something's off or you need a different way to pay, just say the word and we'll sort it out.
Thanks, [Your name]
