Tips
Writing Payment Reminders: Friendly Reminders Before Dunning
A friendly payment reminder can work wonders. Here\
Before sending a formal dunning letter, a friendly payment reminder is often the better way.
Payment Reminder vs. Dunning
| Payment Reminder | Dunning |
|---|---|
| Friendly tone | Formal tone |
| No costs | Can include dunning fees |
| No deadlines | Deadline setting |
| Relationship-preserving | Can strain relationship |
When to Send a Payment Reminder?
- 3-5 days after due date
- Before first dunning
- For otherwise reliable customers
Sample Payment Reminder
Subject: Friendly Reminder - Invoice No. 2025-042
Dear Mr. Müller,
While reviewing my records, I noticed that invoice No. 2025-042 from November 15, 2025 for 1,785.00 euros is still outstanding.
If your payment has crossed with this message, please consider this reminder void.
If you have questions about the invoice, feel free to contact me.
Best regards Max Mustermann
Tips for Effective Payment Reminders
- Stay friendly - Maybe the invoice was simply forgotten
- Mention all details - Invoice number, amount, due date
- Make payment easy - Send bank details again
- Allow for response - Report if there are problems
Automate payment reminders? With Clever Invoice you keep track of all open invoices.
Frequently asked questions
How many payment reminders should I send?
Usually one payment reminder is enough. If the customer doesn't respond, the first dunning follows after 7-14 days.
Can I charge dunning fees in the payment reminder?
No, dunning fees are only permissible from the dunning letter after default occurs. The payment reminder is not yet a dunning.