How to Chase an Unpaid Invoice as a Copywriter

Why copywriters get paid late

• Payment gets tied to the content being published, which can take months.
• Marketing managers approve the work but finance needs a PO.

How to get paid: advice for copywriters

• Invoice on delivery of the copy, not on publication. Put that in your terms.
• Ask for the PO before you start, not after you invoice.
• Statutory interest applies to business clients — a firm reminder that it is accruing is legitimate and often enough.

A chasing timeline that works

1. 3 days before due: a friendly heads-up.
2. 1 day overdue: a polite reminder.
3. 7–14 days overdue: a firm reminder and a phone call.
4. 30 days overdue: a final notice with a deadline.
5. Still unpaid: a letter before action, then a small claim if needed.

Your legal options

Your clients are businesses, so the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 applies to every late invoice: you can add statutory interest (8% + base rate) and £40–£100 fixed compensation per invoice, even if your contract doesn't mention it. Calculate what you can claim.