How to chase an unpaid invoice
Most late invoices get paid after a clear, polite chase. Here's a simple timeline UK businesses can follow, from friendly nudge to formal steps.
Before it's due: make paying easy
Put the due date, invoice number, bank details and a payment link on every invoice. Send a short heads-up 3 days before the due date. This one step stops a lot of late payments before they happen.
1 day late: a friendly reminder
Assume it was missed. Resend the invoice, restate the amount and due date, and ask when you can expect payment. Keep it short and warm.
7 days late: a firmer follow-up
Ask for payment this week or a date they'll pay. Mention that, as a business-to-business invoice, statutory interest and a fixed late fee can be added under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998. Phone the person who approves payments if emails go unanswered.
14 days late: final notice
State the interest and fixed fee now owed (£40, £70 or £100 depending on the debt size) and give a clear deadline, such as 7 days. Say what happens next if it's not paid.
30+ days late: letter before action
If there's still no payment, send a formal letter before action. It's the step expected before a court claim, and often prompts payment on its own.
If they can't pay in one go
Offer a written payment plan with fixed dates. Getting paid in parts usually beats a long dispute.
Need the wording? Use our free late payment letter templates or the letter before action guide.
Common questions
How long should I wait before chasing an unpaid invoice?
Send a friendly reminder the day after the due date, a firmer follow-up at 7 days late, and a final notice at 14 days. A short heads-up 3 days before the due date prevents many late payments.
Can I charge interest on a late invoice in the UK?
Yes, for business-to-business invoices. The Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 lets you claim 8% a year above the Bank of England base rate, plus a fixed fee of £40, £70 or £100 depending on the debt size.
What should an invoice reminder email say?
Restate the invoice number, amount and due date, attach or link the invoice, and ask when you can expect payment. Keep early reminders short and polite, and get firmer with each stage.
What if the client still doesn't pay after 30 days?
Send a letter before action giving a clear deadline, usually 14 days for a business. If it is still unpaid, you can make a money claim through the court.
Let Paid do the chasing
Paid sends polite, then firmer reminders for you, adds legal interest when you want it, and gives clients a simple "View & pay" page. Free for your first 3 invoices.
Start freeMore free help: debt recovery guide · late payment interest calculator