As an employee, there are few things more frustrating than not receiving payment for the work you’ve done. Whether it’s a late payment, unpaid wages, or an overdue invoice, it’s important to have a plan of action for how to handle the situation. In this article, we’ll outline how to write an email about not getting paid, including important terms and phrases to use, as well as email templates to make the process a little easier.
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What to Do Before Writing an Email About Not Getting Paid
First and foremost, it’s important to approach the situation professionally and calmly. While it’s understandable to feel upset or even angry about the lack of payment, it’s important to remember that your employer or client may have a legitimate reason for the delay.
Before you send an email, take a few deep breaths and calm down. Emotions can cloud judgment and make the situation worse, so it’s important to approach the situation from a rational standpoint.
What to Include in An Email About Not Getting Paid
Once you’re feeling more composed, it’s time to start drafting your email. The first step is to clearly state the issue at hand.
Start by providing some background information, such as the date(s) that you worked, the job title you hold, and the expected payment details (e.g. salary, overtime pay, etc.). From there, you can explain that you have not received payment and provide specific details, such as the outstanding amount or invoice number.
In your email, it’s important to be specific about any payment terms that have not been met by the employer. If there was an agreement about the payment due date, remind them about that. Additionally, it is important to mention the payment option that was agreed on, whether direct deposit or any other form of payment.
If you have already attempted to resolve the issue through other means, such as contacting customer service or requesting payment through a payment request email or invoice email, be sure to mention that in your email.
This will show that you have made an effort to resolve the issue without taking more drastic steps, such as legal action.
If you’re sending your email to someone higher up in the company, make sure to highlight your hard work and professionalism. Let them know how much you value your job, and how you have already reached out to customer service without the desired result. Politely ask them to follow up on the matter, and provide any information they may need to resolve the issue.
Sample Template for An Email About Not Getting Paid
Dear Employer/Client,
I am writing to address a concern that has come up regarding my payment. As you may recall, I provided services to [company/client name] on [insert date(s) worked]. I was under the understanding that I would be paid [insert wage/payment terms] for my services, however, I have not yet received payment.
After receiving no response from customer service, I am writing to request an update on the status of my payment. According to my records, there is an outstanding invoice for [insert amount/outstanding payment details or invoice number].
If there is any additional information required, please let me know. I value my job and appreciate the opportunity to work with your company/client; I was hoping that we could resolve this matter promptly.
Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Insert Your Name]
In some cases, you may need to send a follow-up email if you still haven’t received payment after sending your initial email. It’s important to keep your tone professional and polite, even if you’re frustrated with the situation.
A friendly reminder or a prompt payment request email can be followed up within a week or two to ensure that your request is being acted upon. If there is a late fee, mention that in your email, but don’t make it an ultimatum. It is important to be firm but polite to resolve the issue amicably.
Sample Payment Reminder Email or Follow-up Email Template
Dear Employer/Client,
I am writing to follow up on my previous email regarding the outstanding payment for my services on [insert date(s) worked]. I have yet to receive any updates, and the outstanding balance remains unpaid.
As mentioned in my previous email, there is an outstanding invoice for [insert amount or invoice number/details]. I would greatly appreciate an update on the status of this invoice and when I can expect to receive payment.
I value my job and appreciate the opportunity to work with your company/client. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Insert Your Name]
If your reminders have failed to resolve the issue, it may be time to send a demand letter. A demand letter is a formal document that outlines the unpaid wages or invoices, the date they were due, and the consequences for not paying them. By sending a demand letter, you are making it clear that you are prepared to take legal action if necessary.
However, sending a demand letter should be a last resort. This can be the best way to use a lawyer who can draft and send the demand letter.
It is of utmost importance to follow up the demand letter with action if the employer still does not make the outstanding payment. In case the employer still hasn’t responded or made the payment, it might be necessary to escalate the matter to labour courts, social security, or any other relevant authorities.
Sample Demand Letter Template
[Your Name and Address]
[Employer/Client Name and Address]
[Date]
Dear [Employer/Client Name],
I regret having to send this letter, but after multiple attempts to seek resolution, I have not yet received my final wages or outstanding payments. As per our agreement, I provided services for [insert dates worked] and was due to receive payment of [insert wages/pay details].
As of the date of this letter, I have not received payment for my services, and there is an outstanding debt of [insert amount and invoice number/details]. Despite multiple attempts to resolve this matter, it has remained unresolved for more than [insert time period] and has caused me significant financial strain.
I am prepared to take further legal action to recover the outstanding balance if necessary. To avoid this, I urge you to settle this matter promptly and pay the outstanding balance in full by [insert hard date] to my account via [insert payment option].
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to receiving payment and resolving this matter without further action.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
In conclusion, not receiving payment can be frustrating and stressful. But in such an instance it is important to maintain a professional and calm demeanor while challenging the employer.
By clearly and accurately outlining the issue, providing important information such as dates, payment terms, and invoice numbers, and using polite language, you can increase your chances of receiving payment promptly. And if communication with employer/client is failing, it is advisable to use a professional lawyer to escalate the legal action.
