Payment reminder text messages: 7 templates for small businesses
A text is often the fastest way to get an invoice paid. It is read within minutes, it feels personal, and a payment link in the message makes paying a one-tap job. Keep it short, specific and friendly.
Before you send
- Only text customers who gave you their number for the job, and keep it about the invoice.
- Include who you are, the amount, and one payment link.
- Send during working hours, never late at night.
1. Invoice sent
Hi {name}, it’s {your name} from {business}. Thanks for choosing us! Your invoice for {job} is {amount}, due {date}. Pay here: {link}
2. Friendly heads-up (2–3 days before due)
Hi {name}, a quick reminder that the {amount} invoice for {job} is due on {date}. You can pay here: {link}. Thanks!
3. Due today
Hi {name}, just a reminder the invoice for {job} ({amount}) is due today: {link}. Any questions, just reply here.
Want this done for you?
Recover finds overdue invoices and quiet quotes, drafts the follow-ups, and sends nothing without your approval.
Check my invoices free →Free. No card. Nothing is sent without your approval.
Prefer a hand? Book a $99 recovery session with a person →
4. One day late
Hi {name}, it looks like the {amount} invoice for {job} may have slipped through. Here’s the link again: {link}. Could you let me know when to expect it?
5. One week late
Hi {name}, the invoice for {job} ({amount}) is now 7 days overdue. Please pay by {new date}: {link}. If something’s wrong with it, reply and I’ll fix it today.
6. Offer a plan
Hi {name}, if paying {amount} in one go is difficult, I’m happy to split it into {2 or 3} payments. Just reply and we’ll agree dates.
7. Final reminder (around 30 days)
Hi {name}, I’ve sent reminders about the {amount} invoice for {job} and haven’t heard back. Please pay by {final date}: {link}, or call me on {phone}. I’d really like to sort this out together.
If texts don’t work
Follow up with a short email that has the invoice attached, then a phone call. For the wording of a formal last step, see final notice for an unpaid invoice.
Need wording? Get the 5 free reminder templates.
Want this done for you?
Recover finds overdue invoices and quiet quotes, drafts the follow-ups, and sends nothing without your approval.
Check my invoices free →Free. No card. Nothing is sent without your approval.
Prefer a hand? Book a $99 recovery session with a person →
Get the free chasing schedule
A one-page plan for when to send each reminder. Enter your email and it opens right here.
We store your email; we only send tips and offers if you tick the box. Privacy.
Your chasing schedule
- 3 days before due: friendly heads-up with the amount and payment link.
- Day 1 late: light reminder, ask when to expect payment.
- Day 7 late: name it overdue, give a new date, offer to fix or split.
- Day 14 late: phone call to the person who approved the work.
- Day 30 late: final notice listing earlier reminders and a last date.
The wording for each step is in the 5 free templates.
More guides
- How to chase an unpaid invoice politely (step by step)
- What to do when a client won’t pay: a practical checklist
- Late payment email for freelancers (3 templates that work)
General information, not legal or financial advice. Rules differ by country.