You're not alone: in one industry report, 56% of creators said a brand had paid them late, and Net 60 or Net 90 terms are common. Late isn't always unpaid, but chasing early and politely is what gets you paid.
The chasing timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| The day after it's due | A friendly reminder with the invoice attached, asking when it's scheduled for payment |
| A week late | Ask for a payment date, and for the accounts or finance contact |
| 30 days late | A final notice with a deadline (say 7 days) and what happens next |
| Still nothing | Your options: interest and compensation (UK), a formal letter, or a small claim |
Check these first
- Did you invoice the right company? Agencies often pay, not the brand.
- Does the invoice have their PO number, if they use one?
- What payment terms did the contract set? Net 30 means 30 days from the invoice.
Your options by country
- UK: for invoices to businesses, the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 lets you add interest at 8% above the Bank of England base rate, plus £40, £70 or £100 fixed compensation per invoice. In England and Wales, small claims up to £10,000 can be made online.
- US, Canada and Australia: late fees depend on your contract, so put one in. Small claims limits and processes vary by state, province or territory.
For the future: ask for 50% up front on bigger deals and terms of Net 30 or less.
FAQs
How long should I wait before chasing a brand payment?
Send a friendly reminder the day after it's due, then again a week later, then a final notice at about 30 days.
Can I charge interest on a late brand payment in the UK?
For invoices to businesses, yes: statutory interest at 8% above the Bank of England base rate, plus £40, £70 or £100 compensation per invoice.
Plan it in minutes
Works out each invoice's due date, days late and which reminder to send, with the emails written for you. Editions for the UK, US, Canada and Australia.
See the Creator Business Tracker →
