Freelance Templates
Browse our collection of professional templates.
Successful freelancing requires professional client communication at every stage of the project. Our freelance templates help you handle everything from onboarding new clients to following up on overdue invoices—all while maintaining positive client relationships.
These templates strike the perfect balance between being friendly and professional, helping you set boundaries, get paid on time, and grow your freelance business with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Send a friendly reminder on the day after the due date, then follow up weekly. After 30 days, consider more formal collection methods.
Address it immediately when a client requests work outside the original agreement. Politely explain that additional work requires additional compensation.
Most freelancers raise rates annually or every 18 months. Give existing clients 30-60 days notice before implementing new rates.
Yes! Ask within a week of project completion while the client's positive experience is fresh. Make it easy by offering to send specific questions.
đź“š Featured Article: How Freelancers Can Get Paid Faster
Late payments are one of the biggest challenges freelancers face. Here's how to follow up on overdue invoices professionally and effectively—without damaging client relationships.
Set Clear Payment Terms Upfront
Prevention is the best medicine. Your contract should specify payment terms (Net 15, Net 30, etc.), accepted payment methods, and late fee policies. Make sure clients understand and agree to these terms before starting work. Consider requiring a 50% deposit for new clients.
The Follow-Up Timeline
Day of due date: Send a friendly reminder. Day after due date: Send a polite follow-up email. 7 days overdue: More direct email with specific deadline. 14 days overdue: Phone call or final email notice. 30+ days: Consider formal collection methods or small claims court.
How to Write the Perfect Follow-Up Email
Your follow-up should be polite but clear. Assume the best (maybe they forgot or didn't receive the invoice) while still being firm about payment expectations. Always include the invoice number, amount owed, original due date, and a direct link or PDF of the invoice.
When to Get Tough
If a client repeatedly pays late or ignores your follow-ups, it's time to enforce your late fees and consider pausing work. Don't continue working for clients who don't respect your payment terms. It's better to lose one bad client than to work for free.