Chase Invoice
Day 7Friendly

What to Reply When a Client Says Payment Is Coming

"It's being processed" and "should be with you soon" are the most common replies to a reminder, and the most common reason invoices drift another month. The right reply is short and friendly and turns the vague promise into a date.

See the templateFill it with my details

When to send it

The same day the client replies with a vague promise to pay.

The full template

Template
Subject
Re: invoice [INVOICE #]
Hi [CLIENT NAME],

Thanks for the update, much appreciated.

So I can mark it on my side, what date is the payment scheduled for? If you can share the transfer reference once it's sent, even better.

I'll check on [DATE] and only follow up if I don't see it by then.

Thanks,
[YOUR NAME]

Variant: When the promised date has passed

When the promised date has passed
Subject
Re: invoice [INVOICE #]
Hi [CLIENT NAME],

You mentioned the payment for invoice [INVOICE #] would go out on [THEIR DATE]. I don't see it yet.

Could you check with your finance team and send me the transfer reference or the new date?

Thanks,
[YOUR NAME]

Mistakes to avoid

  • Replying "no worries, whenever you can". It removes all urgency.
  • Not replying at all and waiting.
  • Asking for proof aggressively. A transfer reference is a normal request.
  • Forgetting to follow up on the promised date.

FAQ

What do you say when a client says the payment is being processed?

Thank them and ask for the scheduled date and, once sent, the transfer reference.

How long should I wait after a client says they paid?

International transfers can take 1 to 5 business days. Ask for the reference, then check with your bank after that window.

Generate all 4 emails with your details

Free, no account. Dates calculated from the due date.

Invoice details

Private, in your browser
Tone

4 follow-ups

To
Northwind Studio
Subject
Invoice INV-0042: payment reminder
Send
Hi Northwind Studio,

Invoice INV-0042 for USD 2,400.00 was due on October 20, 2026. I don't have the payment on my side yet.

Probably an oversight, so here are the details again:

Amount: USD 2,400.00
Reference: INV-0042
Pay to: details on the invoice (attached again)

If it has already gone out, send me the transfer date and I'll match it on my end.

Thanks,
Alex Rivera

Email 1 of 4

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