How to send a formal payment demand to an ad network (with a template)
When a payment is overdue and polite reminders have gone nowhere, the next step is a formal written demand. Done well, it is dated, factual and addressed to the correct legal entity; it becomes the first exhibit in any later claim. Done badly, it is an angry message that weakens your position. This guide explains how to write one and includes a template you can adapt. It is general information, not legal advice.
Before you write
- Identify the correct legal entity. Use the name on the contract and the invoices, not just the brand.
- Calculate the exact amount, in the contract currency, by invoice and period.
- Gather the evidence: contract, invoices, platform statistics, and your previous requests for payment.
- Check the contract for a notice clause: required address, method and language.
What a good demand contains
- Parties and reference. Your legal name, theirs and the contract or account reference.
- Facts. What was agreed, what you delivered and the invoices outstanding with dates and amounts.
- The amount owed, with a breakdown.
- A deadline. A specific date, usually 7 to 14 days.
- What you will do next, stated calmly, such as escalating to a formal claim.
- Where to pay. Bank details, or a reference to the details on your invoices.
A template to adapt
Subject: Formal demand for payment — [Contract/Account ref.] — [Amount, currency]
Dear [Name / Legal Department],
I write on behalf of [your legal name] regarding the agreement dated [date] with [their legal entity name].
Under this agreement we delivered [services] during [period]. The following invoices remain unpaid: [invoice no., date, amount]. The total outstanding amount is [amount, currency].
We previously requested payment on [dates]. To date we have not received payment or a written explanation.
We therefore request payment in full by [date]. If payment is not received by then, we will consider the available legal options, including a formal claim.
Please confirm receipt of this message.
Sincerely,
[Name, role, contact details]
How to send it
- By email, to every address you have for the company, with a read receipt if possible.
- By the method required in the contract, for example registered post to the notice address.
- Keep proof of sending and any reply.
Mistakes to avoid
- Threats and insults. They can be used against you later.
- Addressing the wrong party. A demand to a brand that is not the contracting entity is easy to ignore.
- Vague amounts and no deadline.
- Making accusations you cannot prove. Stick to facts and documents.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer to send it? Not necessarily, but a letter from a lawyer often carries more weight. For large amounts, it is worth it.
What if they do not reply? Keep the proof of sending and move to the next step. See steps to claim.
The bottom line
A formal demand is not about pressure; it is about building a record. Short, factual and dated beats long and angry every time.
This article and the template are general information. They do not replace advice from a lawyer qualified in your jurisdiction. References to UndrAds reflect the opinion and testimony of the affected parties about alleged facts.