Free template
Final notice letter template for unpaid invoices
A firm, professional last reminder before you escalate a past-due business invoice. Copy it, fill in the brackets and send.
When to send a final notice
Send a final notice after your normal reminders have gone unanswered, typically 45–90 days past due, and before you place the account with a collection agency or attorney. It should state the amount, give a specific deadline and say plainly what happens next. Then follow through: a final notice you don't act on teaches customers to ignore you.
Tips
- Attach copies of the unpaid invoices and a statement of account
- Make paying easy: include a payment link, remittance details and a contact person
- Only mention interest or late fees if your contract or terms allow them
- Only state consequences you actually intend to carry out
- Keep it factual. Avoid threats, insults or anything misleading.
The template
[Your Company Name] [Address] · [Phone] · [Email] [Date] [Customer Company Name] Attn: [Contact Name / Accounts Payable] [Address] RE: FINAL NOTICE — Past-Due Balance of $[Amount] Account #: [Account Number] Invoice(s): [Invoice Numbers and Dates] Dear [Contact Name], Our records show that the balance above is now [Number] days past due. We have contacted you about it on [Dates of prior reminders] and have not received payment or a response that resolves it. Please pay $[Amount] in full by [Deadline Date — e.g., 10 days from today]. You can pay by: • [Payment link / ACH details / check payable to ...] If you believe this balance is incorrect, or you need to discuss a payment arrangement, contact [Name] at [Phone/Email] before the deadline so we can review it. If we do not receive payment or hear from you by [Deadline Date], we intend to refer this account to [a third-party collection agency / our attorney] for further collection action without further notice. [If your contract allows: Under our terms, the account may also accrue [late fees / interest at X%] and collection costs.] We value our business relationship and would prefer to resolve this directly. Sincerely, [Name] [Title] [Company Name] Enclosures: Statement of account; copies of invoices
What comes next
If the deadline passes, escalate with a formal demand letter or place the account. Our small business and B2B debt collection pages explain the options.
Written for business-to-business accounts. If the debtor is an individual consumer, consumer-protection laws may affect what you can say and charge, so consider having the wording reviewed.
Not legal advice. This page is general information, not legal advice, and laws vary by state and change over time. CollectionPlacement is a referral service, not a law firm or collection agency. Consult a licensed attorney about your situation.
Frequently asked questions
What should a final notice letter include?
The amount owed, invoice references, prior contact attempts, a specific payment deadline, how to pay, who to contact about disputes, and the next step you will take if unpaid.
How long should the deadline be?
Many businesses use 7 to 14 days. Choose a deadline you'll enforce.
Can I add late fees in a final notice?
Only if your contract, terms or applicable law allow them. Unauthorized fees can create legal problems.
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