SMS Warning Templates Before Escalation

A short text can cut through email silence right before you escalate. Use these SMS templates to request payment today or a committed date—then document everything in email.

When to use / when to send

• Use when invoices are overdue, email hasn’t worked, and you need a fast response before escalating.
• Best after you’ve already emailed at least twice and attempted a call/voicemail.
• Goal: confirm payment today or get a firm date by {{ReplyByDate}}.
• Send during local business hours and keep it one request per text.
• After two texts, stop SMS and move to a deadline email using {{DeadlineDate}}.

Checklist / what to include

• Identity: {{YourName}} at {{Company}}
• Invoice reference: #{{InvoiceNumber}} and {{Amount}}
• Due date {{DueDate}} (brief mention only)
• One action: pay via {{PayLink}} or reply with a date
• A simple reply format: PAID or PAYING [date]

Copy/paste templates

Recommended timing / follow-up plan

• Send first SMS after 2+ unanswered emails
• If no reply, send one follow-up SMS 48–72 hours later
• After SMS, send an email recap documenting the request and deadline
• If they reply without a date, ask again for the exact date immediately
• If still unpaid, send a deadline email using {{DeadlineDate}} and escalate

Best practices / common mistakes

• Do: keep it short and easy to answer on mobile
• Do: include invoice number and amount every time
• Don’t: send daily texts—two is usually enough
• Don’t: negotiate long plans over SMS; move to email
• Do: stop SMS if they request another channel

FAQ

Related templates

• Overdue invoice SMS follow-up text
• Final demand payment email deadline
• Voicemail script unpaid invoice ask for date
• 14 day overdue escalation email