Templates

Text Message Templates for Late Invoice Reminders

Four copy-ready SMS templates that are short enough to actually get read — and direct enough to get paid.

August 5, 2026·4 min read

For many contractors, the client relationship is built over text. Following up on invoices through the same channel your client already uses makes payment feel natural — not formal or awkward. The key is keeping messages short, specific, and easy to act on.

These four templates follow the same escalation pattern as email reminders — from friendly heads-up to firm follow-up — condensed into the format that works for SMS.

Keep every text under 160 characters where possible. Long texts get skimmed or ignored. Short, specific texts get read — and acted on.
Template 1

Pre-due heads-up text (3 days before due)

Light and friendly. The client isn't late yet — this is a prompt, not a chase.

Pre-Due SMS
Hi [First Name] — quick reminder that invoice #[Invoice Number] for $[Amount] is due on [Due Date]. Pay here: [Payment Link]. Thanks, [Your Name]
Template 2

Due date reminder text (day of)

Neutral and simple. Make the payment link the most visible part of the message.

Due Date SMS
Hi [First Name], invoice #[Invoice Number] for $[Amount] is due today. One-tap payment: [Payment Link]. Thanks! — [Your Name]
Template 3

First overdue text (5–7 days past due)

Still conversational, but now it's a follow-up rather than a heads-up. Ask for a response — it invites the client to engage rather than ignore.

First Overdue SMS
Hi [First Name], following up on invoice #[Invoice Number] for $[Amount] (due [Due Date]). Can you let me know when to expect payment? [Payment Link] — [Your Name]
Template 4

Second overdue text (14+ days past due)

Firm but not aggressive. At this point you're being clear that the invoice is overdue and payment is expected. Keep it factual.

Second Overdue SMS
Hi [First Name], second follow-up on invoice #[Invoice Number] for $[Amount] — due [Due Date] and still outstanding. Please arrange payment: [Payment Link]. Thanks, [Your Name]
How LaborMate Helps

Automate the sequence so you never have to type these out again

LaborMate's send scheduled follow-ups with your message templates and a live payment link — so clients get a consistent, professional sequence without you drafting anything after the invoice is sent.

What makes automated reminders better than manual texts:
  • •Consistent timing — never too early, never too late.
  • •Payment links embedded in every message.
  • •Stops automatically when the invoice is paid.
  • •No awkward post-payment texts because you forgot to cancel the sequence.

Key Takeaways

Is it appropriate to text clients about unpaid invoices?

For most contractor-client relationships, yes — especially if you've communicated by text before. Keep the message professional and brief. If the relationship is formal, default to email.

How long should a payment reminder text be?

One to three lines. Include the invoice number, amount, and a payment link. That's it. Anything longer reads as pressure rather than a business communication.

When should I switch from text to email for reminders?

If a text goes unread or unanswered after two attempts, switch to email. Email creates a more formal paper trail and is better suited for escalated follow-ups.

Should I send both a text and an email for each reminder?

Not typically — pick the channel that fits the client relationship. If a client has consistently responded by text, stay there. If they're more email-responsive, go that route. Avoid doubling up on channels per reminder.

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