Sample Letter to Someone Who Owes You Money

Writing a formal letter to request money owed is an initial step in addressing an outstanding debt. This communication establishes a clear, written record of the debt and your formal request for its repayment.

It provides documented proof that you have formally notified the debtor and attempted to resolve the matter amicably, often prompting payment without requiring more extensive measures.

Gathering Necessary Information

Before drafting a formal request for payment, gather all relevant information and supporting documentation. This preparation ensures accuracy and strengthens your claim.

Confirm the exact amount owed, including the principal sum, any agreed-upon interest, and applicable late fees. Identify the debt’s origin, whether from a formal loan agreement, an unpaid invoice, a personal agreement, or a shared expense. Document all pertinent dates, such as when the debt was incurred, the original due date, and any passed payment deadlines.

Gather supporting documentation, including copies of contracts, invoices, receipts, text messages, emails, or bank statements, as these materials provide evidence that the debt exists. Ensure you have the debtor’s full contact information (name, address, phone number, and email) and provide your own complete contact details.

Essential Elements of the Letter

Once all necessary information is compiled, structure the formal letter with specific components. Include your full contact information and the current date at the top, followed by the debtor’s full contact information. A clear subject line, such as “Formal Request for Payment – [Brief Description of Debt],” immediately communicates the letter’s purpose.

The opening statement should be polite yet firm, stating the letter is a formal demand for payment of the outstanding debt. Provide a detailed description of the debt, reiterating the exact amount owed, its origin, and all relevant dates, referencing any attached supporting documents. State the specific amount requested and establish a new payment deadline, typically within 10 to 30 days. Include explicit payment instructions, outlining acceptable methods such as bank transfer details, mailing a check, or online payment options. Conclude by stating that further action may be necessary if payment is not received by the deadline, maintaining a professional tone.

Sending Your Letter

After completing the letter, the method of delivery and record-keeping are important for establishing a verifiable timeline. Sending the letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested provides proof of mailing and confirmation of delivery. If sending by email, request a read receipt to confirm the message was opened and sent to the correct address. For personal delivery, have a witness present who can sign an acknowledgment of receipt.

Maintain thorough records throughout this process. Always keep a complete copy of the signed letter and all supporting documents. Organize these records with any proof of delivery, such as certified mail receipts or email read receipts, in a secure location. After sending the letter, allow the specified deadline to pass before considering any subsequent actions.