Late payment: terms first, reminders second

Late payment is usually a terms problem before it is a collections problem: unclear due dates and no consequence invite delay.

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Fix the terms

Payment terms in days, from invoice date or from receipt — say which.

State what happens on late payment, if anything. Silent contracts teach customers that nothing happens.

Three days before, on the date, day 7 and day 14.

Send from the company address the customer recognises, in one thread per invoice.

Formal notice with a date and the next step.

Then act: hold supply, ask for security, or involve a lawyer. Announced steps must follow.

Offer a plan before the customer asks: two dated instalments beat «soon».

Never embarrass a contact in front of their colleagues — copy only those who must act.

Only if your contract provides for it — and local rules apply. Get advice before adding a charge.

Commonly 30–45 days past due, unless the contract sets a different point.