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What to do with a client who doesn't pay?
Written by Ilias3 min read
Sooner or later it happens to almost every entrepreneur: a client who doesn't pay your invoice. That's frustrating and puts pressure on your cash flow. Fortunately you can take steps to still get your money. This article gives a practical step-by-step plan.
Start with a reminder
The first step is a friendly payment reminder. Often an unpaid invoice is simply forgotten. Send a polite reminder with the invoice details and a new payment term. In many cases payment then still follows.
Send a formal reminder
If the reminder doesn't help, you send a formal reminder, a more formal letter demanding payment within a certain term. In it you can indicate that you'll take further steps if payment doesn't come. Keep the tone businesslike but clear.
Engage a collection agency
If payment still doesn't come, you can engage a collection agency that collects the claim on your behalf. There are costs involved, but for larger amounts it can be worthwhile. A final step is legal proceedings, but those are often costly and time-consuming.
How do you prevent non-payers?
Prevention is better than collection. Invoice right after the work, use clear payment agreements, and for large or new jobs possibly ask for a deposit. Good receivables management reduces the chance that you have to chase your money.
This article provides general information based on the rules known for 2026 and does not replace personal tax advice. For your specific situation, we're happy to take a look with you.
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