Unpaid invoice guide
What to do if a client does not pay your invoice.
Unpaid invoices are easier to address when you have a clear invoice record, proof of completed work, payment reminders, and a written request for payment.
General information only. ResolveLetter is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Situation
A common situation
You completed work, delivered a service, or provided goods, but the client has not paid. They may be ignoring reminders, disputing the amount, or delaying without a clear payment date.
If the issue involves court papers, urgent deadlines, large financial exposure, eviction, injury, or other serious risk, consider speaking with a licensed attorney.
Practical steps
Practical steps to take
The goal is to make the issue easier to understand, easier to document, and easier to present in writing.
Confirm the invoice details
Check the invoice number, amount owed, due date, payment terms, and what work or goods were provided.
Collect proof of performance
Save contracts, messages, approvals, delivery confirmations, project files, and work completion records.
Send a professional reminder
Start with a clear reminder that identifies the invoice, amount, due date, and payment method.
Ask for a specific payment date
If payment is delayed, ask the client to confirm a payment date or explain any dispute in writing.
Use a written demand if reminders fail
A payment demand letter can summarize the debt and request payment or a payment arrangement by a reasonable deadline.
Written document
When an unpaid invoice demand letter may help
A demand letter may help when ordinary reminders are ignored and you need a more formal written request for payment.
Prepare your document
Prepare an unpaid invoice letter
ResolveLetter can help you prepare a professional unpaid invoice demand letter draft.
Related
Related resources
FAQ
Unpaid invoice questions
Should I keep sending reminders?
If reminders are ignored, a structured written request may be more effective because it clearly states the invoice, amount, due date, and requested response.
Can I offer a payment plan?
Yes. If you are open to it, the letter can request full payment or propose a payment arrangement.
Is this legal advice?
No. This page provides general information and document-preparation context.
Important notice
ResolveLetter is a document-preparation and legal information tool. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship and does not represent you. For legal advice, consult a licensed attorney in your state.