Invoice Chaser Letter Template & Generator
How to formally chase an unpaid invoice before legal action — what matters most, your legal rights, and a free ready-to-use generator.
← All Letter Templates & Generators · Self Employed · Last updated 18 August 2026 · Written and reviewed by Matt Thompson, founder of UK Work Rights
This is free rights guidance, not legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, see our About page or contact Citizens Advice.
If you need to formally chase an unpaid invoice before legal action, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong invoice chaser letter should include, plus a free tool to generate yours.
What this letter needs to cover
- Reference the specific invoice number and amount
- Note the original due date
- State it remains unpaid
- Give a deadline for payment (7 days)
- State that failure to pay may result in legal action under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act
- Remain professional
Why a formal chaser letter works better than another reminder email
By the time an invoice needs formally chasing, informal reminders have usually already been ignored — a clear, firm letter signals you're taking the matter seriously and are prepared to escalate if needed. This often prompts payment on its own, before any further formal action becomes necessary.
What to include before you send it
- The invoice number, date, and amount outstanding
- Confirmation of any previous reminders already sent
- A clear final deadline for payment
- What happens if payment isn't received — late payment interest, or further legal action
Your right to charge interest on late commercial payments
Under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act, you may be entitled to charge statutory interest and a fixed compensation fee on overdue commercial invoices, even if your original terms didn't mention this — this is a legal right for business-to-business transactions, not something that needs to be specifically agreed in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge interest even if it wasn't in my original contract?
Yes — statutory interest under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act applies automatically to qualifying commercial debts unless your contract already specifies a different rate.
What if this chaser letter doesn't get a response?
The next step is typically a formal letter before action, followed by small claims court proceedings if the amount qualifies and remains unpaid.
Ready to write yours?
Answer a few questions and get a professionally drafted letter, ready to send — free, no account needed.
✉️ Generate This Letter Free →Related reading
Comments
Comments are loading…
