Send the first polite overdue invoice note

Stage 1 is not collections theater. It is a short, clear reminder that an invoice is open and how to pay.

This hack: twelve minutes, one overdue invoice, stage-1 note only. Keep it short. Escalate later if needed.

When to use it

• An invoice is past due and you have not nudged yet.
• Payment instructions are clear.
• You are the right person to send stage 1.

When not to

• This is already stage 3 conflict. Don't rewind to cheerful.
• The invoice itself is wrong. Fix it first.
• Legal holds apply. Follow that process.

Do this (timer on)

1. 1. Pull invoice number, amount, due date, pay link/instructions.
2. 2. Draft stage-1 with the prompt.
3. 3. Send to AP contact (not a random CC pile).
4. 4. Log the chase date on the invoice.

Prompt (copy)

Write a stage-1 overdue invoice email.

Rules:
- Short, polite, specific
- Include invoice #, amount, original due date, how to pay
- Assume good intent / processing delay
- No threats. No fake late fees unless I provide policy.
- One clear ask + reply-by date

INVOICE #:
AMOUNT:
DUE DATE:
PAY INSTRUCTIONS:
AP CONTACT CONTEXT:
[paste]

After you send

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