Template library › Retainer · 14 days · Firm

Retainer invoice 14 days late: hold next month

Hold the next retainer month until the overdue one is paid.

“The longer and softer you make it the more it reads like you think you're being unreasonable for wanting to get paid.” This one is short and direct, with no “sorry to bother you”.

On a retainer, the stake is next month's capacity.

Subject: [Month] retainer [INV-123] — 14 days overdue

Hi [Name],

The [month] retainer invoice [INV-123] ([amount]) is 14 days overdue.

I'll need it settled before starting [next month]'s work on [date]. If there's a cash-flow issue, tell me and we can talk about timing — pay link: [payment link].

Thanks,
[Your name]

Tips

• Move to payment in advance for future months.
• Put the start condition in writing.

Placeholders in [brackets]. Stop when paid: cancel any remaining reminders the day payment clears. General information and draft wording only. Not legal advice. PaidNudge is not a law firm or a debt collector. Check your contract and local rules, or ask a qualified lawyer, before relying on any late fee, interest or court step.

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