Overdue invoice: the order of moves

Start by checking the invoice actually arrived and is correct. Then remind, call, agree a plan and escalate — in that order, with dates attached to each step.

Try it on your own invoice

5 documents free. PDF, photo or XML — data out as CSV, Excel or JSON.

First, rule out your own mistake

Wrong PO number, wrong entity, wrong bank details, invoice sent to an old address — these cause more «late payments» than cash-flow problems.

A five-minute check prevents an awkward apology later.

Then the sequence

Reminder with the invoice attached.

Phone call: who approves, what is the date.

Written plan if the date slips again.

Formal notice, then collection or legal steps.

How to keep the client

Never embarrass them in front of colleagues — copy only the people who need to act.

Offer a plan before they ask for one; it keeps the initiative with you.

When to stop

When the cost of chasing exceeds the invoice and the relationship has no future.

Write that decision down: it prevents months of resentful follow-ups.

Frequently asked

How long before escalating?

Most businesses escalate at 30–45 days past due. Your contract may set a different point.

Does a payment plan actually work?

It works better than a promise: two dated instalments are enforceable expectations, «soon» is not.