Phone Script for Overdue Invoice Collections
Phone calls are still the fastest way to confirm a payment date for overdue invoices. Use this focused script to stay factual and secure a commitment fast. Templates only — not legal advice.
Generate free previewWhen to use / when to send
Checklist / what to include
- Introduce yourself and company.
- State invoice #{{InvoiceNumber}}, {{Amount}}, and original due date.
- State reason for call: overdue invoice.
- Single ask: confirm payment date or if it’s already scheduled.
- Give pay link if applicable.
- Ask for confirmation via email after the call.
- Be ready to note who owns payment release.
- Professional, non-confrontational tone.
- Record call details (time, outcome).
- Wrap up with a clear next step.
- ‘Templates only – not legal advice’ reminder.
Copy/paste template
How to use this template
- Prepare invoice details before calling.
- Use business hours in client’s local time.
- If you reach voicemail, leave a concise callback message.
- After the call, send a written recap/confirmation email.
- Escalate internally if no date is given or calls are ignored.
Recommended timing / follow-up plan
- Call after two written reminders are ignored.
- Try again if first call is not answered.
- If date is given, confirm by email with all details.
- If still no reply, proceed with collections/escalation.
- Log all call outcomes for your records.
Best practices / common mistakes
- Do: Stay calm and fact-focused throughout.
- Do: Ask for the payment date, not general promises.
- Do: Keep calls under 5 minutes.
- Do: Confirm all outcomes in writing.
- Do: Thank the client for their time.
- Don't: Threaten or get emotional.
- Don't: Accept vague answers.
- Don't: Forget pay link reference.
- Don't: Delay next steps if ignored.
- Don't: Call more than twice in a row without escalation.