When to Use This Message
Send a Second Late Payment Notice when:
- Your first payment reminder went unanswered.
- The invoice remains unpaid past a second reasonable waiting period.
- You want to increase urgency without yet escalating to a final notice.
- You need a documented record showing multiple good-faith attempts to collect payment.
Message Writing Tips
- Reference the First Reminder: Note that this is a follow-up to your earlier message, so the client understands the timeline of attempts.
- Use a Firmer Tone Than the First Notice: It's appropriate to be more direct here — state clearly that payment is now significantly overdue.
- Restate the Amount and How Overdue It Is: Include the days or weeks past due to underscore the urgency.
- Mention What Comes Next If Unpaid: Indicate that a final notice or other action will follow if payment still isn't received.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many reminders should I send before a final notice?
Most freelancers send two reminders — Gentle then Firm — before moving to a final notice that states clear consequences.
Should I charge a late fee at this stage?
If your contract specifies one, this is a reasonable point to mention it — it adds weight to the urgency of the message.
What if the client disputes the invoice at this point?
Address the dispute directly and separately — don't let it derail the payment request if the dispute isn't valid.