How to Tell a Client Their Invoice Is Overdue by Text
Your invoice is past due and the client has not said a word. You do not want to be pushy, but you also need to get paid. A short, professional text is often the fastest way to get a response -- especially when emails keep getting ignored. Here is what to send.
Friendly Nudge
RecommendedHi [Client Name], just a quick note -- invoice #[number] for [amount] was due on [date] and I have not received payment yet. Could you let me know when I can expect it? Happy to resend the invoice if needed. Thanks!
Subject Line
Payment Reminder: Invoice #[Number] - Due [Date]
Alternative Versions
Polite First Reminder
politeHey [Client Name], hope all is well! Wanted to check in on invoice #[number] for [amount] -- it was due on [date]. No rush on explaining, just want to make sure it did not slip through the cracks. Let me know if you need me to resend it.
Direct Second Reminder
directHi [Client Name], following up on invoice #[number] for [amount], which is now [X days] overdue. Can you confirm when payment will be sent? I want to keep us on good terms, so I would appreciate an update.
Firm Final Notice
firmHi [Client Name], this is my third follow-up on invoice #[number] for [amount], originally due [date]. I need to receive payment by [new deadline] to continue our working relationship. Please let me know the status today.
Formal Email Version
professionalSubject: Payment Reminder -- Invoice #[Number] Now Overdue Hi [Client Name], I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on invoice #[number] in the amount of [amount], which was due on [date]. As of today, I have not received payment or confirmation of a scheduled payment. I have attached the invoice again for your convenience. Could you please provide an update on when I can expect this to be processed? If there is an issue with the invoice or the work delivered, I am happy to discuss. Thank you for your attention to this. Best, [Your Name]
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When to Use This
Send this when: • The invoice due date has passed by a few days or more • Your email reminders have gone unanswered • You have a texting relationship with the client • You want a quick response without escalating • The amount is significant enough to follow up on
What Not to Say
Avoid: • Being passive-aggressive ("Just wondering if you forgot about me...") • Threatening legal action in a first text • Sending the text late at night or on weekends • Apologizing for asking to be paid -- you earned this money • Sending a novel -- keep it short and factual