Client Payments Guide
How to Tell a Client to Pay Politely (UK Templates)
Learn how to remind clients to pay politely, professionally, and firmly — without sounding rude. Includes UK message templates for text, WhatsApp, and email.
If you need to remind a client to pay — but don't want to sound rude — this guide shows you exactly what to say, when to send reminders, and how to avoid awkward follow-ups. Polite payment reminders are one of the most important skills for UK freelancers and service businesses.
Whether you're a dog walker, cleaner, tutor, mobile hairdresser, tradesperson, or freelancer — late payments cause stress and disrupt cash flow. A well-written message solves the problem without damaging the relationship.
In this guide, you'll learn:
- When to remind a client to pay
- How to ask politely without sounding rude
- Message templates for WhatsApp, SMS, and email
- How to follow up if they still don't pay
- How Simply Link automates reminders for you
Why Polite Payment Reminders Matter
Most clients aren't refusing to pay — they're busy, distracted, or simply forgot. A polite reminder:
- Gets you paid faster
- Keeps the relationship positive
- Looks professional and organised
With a clear message and a direct link to pay, most clients complete the payment immediately.
When Should You Remind a Client to Pay?
Here are the standard UK timelines for polite follow-ups:
Day 0
Send the payment link.
Day 1–2
First gentle reminder ("Just checking you received this").
Day 3–5
Second reminder ("Still outstanding").
Day 7+
Firm reminder ("Please settle today").
Simply Link automates this entire sequence with reminders on Day 0, 3, 7, and beyond.
Want to learn more about automation? Read our guide on automatic payment reminders.
Polite Payment Reminder Templates (Copy & Paste)
Template 1 — Gentle Reminder (WhatsApp / SMS)
Hi! Just checking you received the payment link for today's session.
Here it is again: {payment_link}
Let me know if you need anything!
Template 2 — Friendly Follow-Up
Hi! The payment for your booking is still outstanding.
When you get a moment, please use this link: {payment_link}
Thank you!
Template 3 — Firm but Polite
Hi! This is a reminder that your payment is now overdue.
Please complete it today using: {payment_link}
Let me know if there are any issues.
Template 4 — Email Version (Professional)
Hi {name},
I hope you're well! This is a friendly reminder that the payment for {service} is still outstanding.
Please use the link below to complete the payment: {payment_link}
If you've already paid, just ignore this message. Thank you!
Need more templates? See our full collection of payment reminder templates.
A Better Way: Automatic Polite Reminders with Simply Link
Simply Link automatically sends polite, timed reminders so you never have to chase payments manually again.
- Day 0, 3, 7 reminders sent automatically
- Client sees a clean URL like https://simply-link.co.uk/link/simply-works-ltd/1-hour-dog-walk-john-smith
- No awkward chasing — the system does it for you
- Perfect for WhatsApp, SMS, Instagram or email
With Simply Link, you never have to write another payment reminder message again.
Want to learn more about automating reminders? Read our complete automation guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I politely ask a client to pay?
Use a friendly tone, include the payment link again, and avoid blaming language. Provide a clear call to action.
When should I remind a client to pay?
Most UK freelancers send reminders on Day 1–2, Day 3–5, and Day 7 if still unpaid.
What if they still don't pay after reminders?
Send a firm but professional final reminder. If needed, follow your cancellation policy or consider other options.
Can I automate payment reminders?
Yes — Simply Link automatically sends polite reminders on Day 0, 3, 7, and beyond, so you never have to chase manually.
Stop Chasing Payments Manually
Create a payment link in seconds — with polite automated reminders built-in.
Start Free TodayNo card required · Cancel anytime