Free letter template
Demand letter for money owed (before small claims)
Use this before small claims court: it states what is owed, why, by when, and what happens next.
Recommended: Certified + return receipt ($17.99)Judges look for proof that you asked for payment and gave a fair deadline.
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Re: Demand for payment of [Amount owed]
Dear [Who owes you], You owe me [Amount owed] for [What it's for]. Despite my earlier requests, it has not been paid. Please pay the full amount by [Pay by], [How to pay]. If I do not receive payment by that date, I will file a claim in small claims court without further notice and ask for court costs as allowed by law. Sincerely, [Your name]
When to use this letter
- Someone owes you money for a loan, work or damage
- Your court asks whether you demanded payment first
Where to send it
The person's home address or the business's registered agent.
Tips before you mail it
- Keep it factual; the judge may read it.
- Bring a copy, the receipt and the return receipt to court.
The full template text
Re: Demand for payment of {{amount}}
Dear {{debtor}},
You owe me {{amount}} for {{basis}}. Despite my earlier requests, it has not been paid.
Please pay the full amount by {{deadline}}, {{howToPay}}.
If I do not receive payment by that date, I will file a claim in small claims court without further notice and ask for court costs as allowed by law.
Sincerely,
{{signature}}Text in {{double braces}} is filled in from the form above. This is a general template, not legal advice.