2nd unpaid invoice reminder email: template and tips

When should I send a 2nd reminder for an unpaid invoice?

If your first reminder remains unanswered after one week, you must send a second reminder. between 10 and 15 days after the invoice due date.

This timing gives customers a reasonable amount of time to regularize your situation It also shows that you're on the right track. It also shows that you actively manage your accounts receivable, an important signal in the commercial relationship.

This intermediate reminder helps prevent the invoice from being forgotten, without adopting an overly formal or threatening tone.

It can also be used to propose an amicable solution if the customer encounters cash flow difficulties . A telephone call to complement your email can reinforce its effectiveness.

How to write an effective 2nd email reminder?

Write a second reminder requires you to strike the right balance between firmness and courtesy, to remind customers of your payment expectations without damaging the customer relationship.

The right tone of voice to avoid alienating your customer

The tone must be firmer than in the first reminder, while remaining respectful and professional. The aim is to remind you of the unpaid amount in a clear manner, without threatening or altering the business relationship .

Show that you are willing to find a solution, but you're waiting for concrete feedback.

Key points to remember in your message

To ensure that your second reminder is clear and powerful, be sure to include the following elements:

• Reminder of invoice number, amount and due date

• The date of your first unanswered reminder

• Any unfulfilled payment commitments

• A clear request for regularization within a short timeframe

• Your contact details and available payment methods .

Example of an email for a 2nd reminder for an unpaid invoice

Here is a concrete example of a second e-mail reminder, to be adapted according to your relationship with the customer and the level of delay observed:

Subject: 2nd reminder - Invoice no. 2024-112 still awaiting payment

"Hello [Customer name],

Unless we are mistaken, we have still not received payment for invoice no. 2024-112 for €1,350 incl. VAT, due on April 25, 2025.

A first reminder was sent to you on May 2. In the absence of any response from you to date, we would be grateful if you could make payment within 5 days.

You can pay by bank transfer (RIB attached) or via our secure payment link.

If you have a problem or need more time, don't hesitate to contact us again.

We look forward to hearing from you,

Sincerely, [Your first and last name] [Your position] [Your company details]"

2nd relaunch vs. 1st relaunch: what are the differences?

The first reminder is usually as a preventive measure in a cordial and conciliatory tone. It aims to politely remind the customer that an invoice is overdue, assuming it's just an oversight or a slight delay.

The second reminder, on the other hand, assumes that the customer has has been informed but has not yet reacted. It marks a more structured stage in the collection process. The tone becomes firmer, without being aggressive and the message places greater emphasis on the need for rapid regularization.

This reminder also formalizes the follow-up and may mention the next steps (formal notice, possible recourse), while giving dialogue one last chance.

What should I do if the 2nd reminder goes unanswered?

If, despite your reminders, the bill remains unpaid, it's time to consider taking firmer action to obtain the payment due, while keeping your actions within a legal and professional framework.

Send a formal notice by registered mail

If the customer still doesn't respond after your second reminder, formal notice is the next step. This formal letter, ideally sent by registered mail with return receipt is a final warning before legal action is taken.

It must clearly state :

• The amount due

• Invoice reference

• Due date

• A reminder of previous reminders

• A new deadline for payment (often 8 to 15 days).

The formal notice shows that you are determined to obtain payment while giving the customer a final opportunity to regularize the situation out of court.

Consider legal proceedings if necessary

If the formal notice remains unanswered, you have several options depending on the amount and context of the dispute:

• Order to pay (quick and easy procedure)

• Judicial conciliation

• The writ of summons .

Before taking any action, consider consulting a professional (lawyer or legal expert) to assess the best strategy.

Keep in mind that legal proceedings must remain a last resort But it can be essential to unblock certain situations.

Have your invoices financed by Hero and get paid faster

With Hero With our financing solution, you can accelerate payment of your invoices without waiting for a reminder. Our financing solution enables you to recover up to 90% of your receivables within 48 hours, while keeping a firm grip on customer relations.

With Hero, you avoid late payments and secure your cash flow.

Second reminder for unpaid invoices is a key step in your collection process. By adopting the right tone, reminding customers of essential information and adhering to a structured timetable, you increase your chances of obtaining payment without damaging the customer relationship. Heropay enables you to avoid the constraints associated with collecting unpaid invoices, while preserving your cash flow and business relationships.