Overdue invoice email templates - copy and paste examples that work

• Cash flow challenge: Clients are forgetting or delaying payment, and keeping track of overdue invoices is becoming a draining admin task.

• Perfect for: SMEs who want quick, professional email templates that help speed up payment without damaging client relationships.

Novuna supports SMEs by blending practical email tools with expert cash flow solutions. Whether it's a gentle nudge or a final reminder, our approach helps you streamline invoice chasing while maintaining professionalism.

Compare providers now Speak to an expert

Why using email templates helps

Research into UK best practices shows that overdue invoice emails work best when they are:

• Timely and consistent when sent at key stages post-due date

• Polite yet clear with a friendly first, firm later tone

• Internal teams are overwhelmed, spending hours on chasing when that time could be spent on growth

• Fully informative - always include invoice number, amount, due date, and payment options

This approach helps you stay professional and focused, and significantly improves the odds of getting paid faster.

Ready to use templates

1. Friendly reminder (just past due)

When to send: 1–3 days after the invoice due date
Subject: Reminder: Invoice #[Invoice Number] due on [Due Date]

Dear [Client Name],

I hope you're well. I just wanted to send a friendly reminder that invoice #[Invoice Number] was due on [Due Date], for [Amount]. Please let me know if there are any questions or if you need the invoice resent.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

Kind regards,
 [Your Name]

2. Polite overdue reminder (7–14 days late)

When to send: Around 7 days overdue
Subject: Invoice #[Invoice Number] is overdue (Gentle reminder)

Dear [Client Name],

I hope all is well. I wanted to follow up as invoice #[Invoice Number], due on [Due Date], has not yet been settled. If you’ve already made the payment, please ignore this message. Otherwise, please let me know when we can expect payment or if there’s anything we should discuss.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

Best regards,
 [Your Name]

3. Firm reminder (30+ days late)

When to send: Around 30 days overdue
Subject: URGENT: Invoice #[Invoice Number] overdue

Dear [Client Name],

We need your immediate attention to invoice #[Invoice Number], which is now overdue. As per our terms, a late fee of [Amount or percentage] may now apply. Please review and settle the invoice or get in touch if there’s a problem delaying payment.

Thank you for resolving this promptly.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Compare providers now Speak to an expert

Pro tips for better email follow-up

How Novuna Business Cash Flow helps

We help SMEs manage overdue invoices and protect cash flow by:

• Providing practical, ready-to-use email templates

• Connecting you with funding options to bridge delays

• Offering support from polite reminders to structured reminders-all without harming relationships