Quick Answer How to Collect Late Payments from Customers Collect late payments in escalating steps: day 1 reminder, day 7 statement, day 14 formal letter, day 21 letter of demand with interest, day 30 cut off supply and consider the Small Claims Court (up to R20,000) or an attorney. Charge interest and collection costs if your terms allow – and put those terms on every invoice and quote. The escalation ladder Day Step Tone 1 Friendly email + statement Helpful 7 Phone call to the accounts person Firm 14 Formal letter referencing terms Businesslike 21 Letter of demand + interest Serious 30 Stop credit / pause work; Small Claims or…