How to ask for payment by email

Asking for money is only awkward when you make it a personality event. The professional version is boring: number, date, next step, sign-off. Here's the exact playbook.

When to send it: B2B article / guide page (long-tail search).
Drafted at tonefirm
Subject: Payment for {{invoice_number}} — next step?
Hi {{client_name}},

This is a clear and direct note about invoice {{invoice_number}} for {{amount}}, due {{due_date}}.

{{personal_touch}}

If something needs changing, reply here — I'll sort it today. Otherwise I've marked {{invoice_number}} for settlement.

Best,
{{sender_name}}
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The free version ends here.

Copy-paste works once. Overdue re-drafts this template in your voice for every client — and walks the whole ladder on its own: day 1, 7, 14, 21.