Broken Promise Payment Follow-Up Email Template

Broken promise

What to send when a client explicitly said they would pay by a date and it didn't arrive.

Example email

Subject: Invoice #INV-1030 — 10 days past due

Hi [Client],

You mentioned payment for invoice #INV-1142 would land by the date we discussed — checking in since I haven't seen it come through yet.

Can you give me an updated timeline? Totally understand things come up.

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When to use this template

This template is designed for invoices that are 10 days overdue. It strikes a direct, factual tone that references the client's own stated timeline to create urgency without accusation.

  • ✓Opens with the invoice number or project name — not “I” or “I'm following up”
  • ✓Asks one specific question that demands a concrete answer
  • ✓Ends on a forward-moving note, not a passive sign-off

Template variations

Here's how this template adapts to different amounts and situations.

$500

small project, new client, first reminder

$2,500

medium project, repeat client, second follow-up

$8,000

large project, long-term client, final notice

Use our free generator to create the exact version for your situation.

Frequently asked questions

When should I use this template?
What to send when a client explicitly said they would pay by a date and it didn't arrive. This template works best for invoices that are 10 days overdue. It's designed to reference the client's own commitment and create urgency from the broken promise itself.
Can I customize this email for my specific situation?
Yes. Click "Customize this template" below to open our free generator with the broken promise tone pre-selected. Add your client's name, invoice amount, and any context about the situation — the AI will rewrite the email to match perfectly.
How many times should I follow up on an unpaid invoice?
A standard escalation sequence has three steps: (1) a gentle reminder 1-3 days after the due date, (2) a firm follow-up 7-14 days later, and (3) a final notice at 21-30 days with clear consequences. After that, you may need to pause work or escalate to formal collections.