Turn your late payment situation into a firm but professional second reminder that gets results without burning bridges.
When a customer hasn't paid after your first invoice and friendly reminder, you need a follow-up that's direct but still professional. This prompt helps you write a second payment request that clearly states the situation, sets boundaries, and explains next steps—without sounding angry or desperate. Use it when payment is overdue by two weeks or more and you need to escalate politely.
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“Act as a professional business communication coach helping tradespeople collect overdue payments. I need to write a second payment reminder email for an overdue invoice. The customer received the original invoice on [DATE] for [AMOUNT] for [brief job description]. I sent a friendly reminder [NUMBER] days ago with no response. Write a professional but firm email that: 1) clearly states the outstanding balance and how long it's overdue, 2) acknowledges they may have overlooked it but emphasizes I need payment now, 3) mentions a specific deadline (7 days from today), 4) briefly explains what happens next if payment isn't received (late fees, suspension of future work, or whatever I specify), and 5) ends with a clear call to action. Keep the tone respectful but businesslike—not angry, not apologetic. Make it clear I expect payment but still want to maintain the relationship if possible.”
February 21, 2026
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