Friendly Direct Payment Request Email for Overdue Invoice

When an invoice goes overdue, a friendly but firm payment request works better than repeated reminders. Use this template to prompt payment for overdue invoices from accounts payable—without sounding harsh.

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When to use / send

Checklist / what to include

  • Invoice #{{InvoiceNumber}} and original due {{DueDate}}
  • Amount {{Amount}} clearly stated
  • Direct ask for payment or pay date
  • Pay link {{PayLink}}
  • Polite sign-off, your name + company
  • Reply-by date {{ReplyByDate}} if desired

How to use

Copy/paste template

Follow-up plan + common mistakes

  • If no reply in 2 business days, escalate to AP or use your next step
  • If they reply vaguely, ask again for the exact pay date
  • Don’t repeatedly resend the same email—all reminders should add urgency
  • Don’t use guilt or aggression—keep it factual and short

FAQ

Send it when the invoice is 3–7 days overdue and previous reminders haven’t worked. Timing is key before moving to escalation.

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