For the delicate art of asking for money you're already owed. From gentle first reminders to emails that could serve as legal exhibits. Get paid without burning bridges (completely).
“Just a friendly reminder that Invoice #7721 has been outstanding since approximately the last ice age. My accountant is concerned. My landlord is concerned. I remain professionally optimistic.”
“Our standard payment terms are Net 30, which I've helpfully converted to various units: 720 hours, 43,200 minutes, or approximately one-quarter of the time since this invoice was issued.”
“I'm reaching out about Invoice #3391, which at 120 days outstanding has now exceeded the gestation period of several mammalian species. Is your accounts payable team perhaps hibernating?”
“Hi! Just circling back on this. I've attached the original invoice, a receipt of our previous correspondence, and a calendar highlighting the 67 days since the due date. No rush!”
Three at increasing tone levels (2, 4, 5) with 7-day intervals. After that, level 6 with legal team CC is warranted.
Reference the invoice number, original due date, accumulated late days, and casually mention your company's late payment policy - all in a tone that's technically friendly.
Start with accounts payable. If no response after 2 attempts, CC the contact who signed the contract. The CEO CC is your nuclear option.