How many reminders should I send?

Three or four is plenty: one before the due date, one on the day, and one or two after. After that, a phone call or a direct message usually works better than another email.

Can reminders be sent automatically?

Yes. In Mintvo you choose when reminders go out (by default 3 days before, on the due date, and 3 and 7 days after) and they stop as soon as the invoice is paid. Automatic reminders are a Pro feature.

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Payment reminder emails that don't sound desperate

Updated October 31, 2026 · 5 min read

Chasing money feels uncomfortable, so most freelancers put it off. They shouldn't. A short, polite reminder at the right time is normal business, and most clients are glad of it.

3 days before the due date

Friendly and short. You're helping them plan, not chasing.

Hi Sarah,

A quick heads-up that invoice INV-0042 for $1,200.00 is due on Friday. You can view and pay it here: [link]

Thanks!
Ali

On the due date

Still neutral. Assume it's on their list for today.

Hi Sarah,

Invoice INV-0042 for $1,200.00 is due today. Here's the link in case it's handy: [link]

Best,
Ali

3 days late

Most late invoices are simply forgotten. Ask if anything is missing, which gives them an easy reason to reply.

Hi Sarah,

I haven't seen payment for INV-0042 ($1,200.00, due Friday) yet. Is there anything you need from me to process it?

[link]

Thanks,
Ali

7 days late

Be direct and specific. Ask for a date, not just payment.

Hi Sarah,

INV-0042 for $1,200.00 is now a week overdue. Could you let me know when I can expect payment?

[link]

Best,
Ali

Tips that make reminders work

Always include the invoice number, amount and a link to pay
Reply in the same email thread so the history stays together
Stop the moment the invoice is paid. A reminder after payment looks careless
If the client hasn't even opened the invoice, check you have the right email address

Questions

How many reminders should I send?: Three or four is plenty: one before the due date, one on the day, and one or two after. After that, a phone call or a direct message usually works better than another email.
Can reminders be sent automatically?: Yes. In Mintvo you choose when reminders go out (by default 3 days before, on the due date, and 3 and 7 days after) and they stop as soon as the invoice is paid. Automatic reminders are a Pro feature.