How to Chase an Invoice Politely (Templates + Automation)

Chasing invoices is one of the most stressful parts of being self-employed. You did the work. You sent the invoice. Now you are waiting — and every day that passes makes the conversation more awkward.

The good news: there is a way to chase payment that is firm, professional, and doesn't burn the relationship. Here are five templates you can copy and paste, plus a way to automate the whole thing.

When Should You Chase?

Most tradespeople wait too long. The best time to send a reminder is the day the invoice is due — not a week later. A quick, friendly message on the due date normalises prompt payment. Waiting signals that you are not bothered.

Here is a proven five-stage schedule:

Day 0 — Due date reminder (friendly)
Day 3 — First follow-up (polite)
Day 7 — Second follow-up (firmer)
Day 14 — Formal notice (serious)
Day 21 — Final notice (action warning)

Template 1: Due Date Reminder (Day 0)

Hi [Name], just a quick heads-up that invoice [number] for £[amount] is due today. I've attached the payment link for easy bank transfer. Thanks for the business — really appreciate it. Cheers, [Your name]

Why it works: Friendly, specific, includes the payment link. No accusation — just a helpful nudge.

Template 2: First Follow-Up (Day 3)

Hi [Name], just following up on invoice [number] for £[amount] — it was due on [date]. Totally understand things get busy. Here is the payment link if it helps: [link]. Let me know if there are any issues. Cheers, [Your name]

Tired of doing this manually? mNudge handles it on WhatsApp.

Template 3: Second Follow-Up (Day 7)

Hi [Name], I wanted to check in about invoice [number] for £[amount], now 7 days overdue. Could you let me know when I can expect payment? Happy to take a call if there is anything to discuss. Thanks, [Your name]

Why it works: Slightly firmer. Asks for a specific response. Opens the door for a conversation if there is a genuine issue.

Template 4: Formal Notice (Day 14)

Hi [Name], invoice [number] for £[amount] is now 14 days overdue. As per the Late Payment of Commercial Debts Act 1998, I am entitled to charge statutory interest at 8% plus the Bank of England base rate. I would prefer to resolve this without additional charges. Please arrange payment within 7 days. [Your name]

Template 5: Final Notice (Day 21)

[Name], this is a final notice regarding invoice [number] for £[amount], now 21 days overdue. If payment is not received within 7 days, I will apply statutory late payment interest and may pursue recovery through the Small Claims Court. Payment link: [link]. [Your name]

Or Just Automate the Whole Thing

These templates work — but you still have to remember to send them, track who has paid, and deal with the awkwardness. That is exactly what mNudge was built for.

mNudge sends your invoices on WhatsApp and automatically chases late payers through a five-stage escalation — from friendly nudge to final notice. You never have to copy-paste a template or make an awkward phone call.

98% of WhatsApp messages get opened. Compare that to 20% for email. Your reminders actually get read.

Ready to stop chasing?

mNudge sends invoices and chases late payers on WhatsApp — automatically. Set up in 90 seconds. Free to start.

No app required. 2.9% per payment. We only earn when you do.