Overdue Invoices - What to Do When Clients Don't Pay?

The scale of the problem

According to the Intrum European Payment Report 2025, one in three B2B invoices in Poland is paid after the due date. The average delay is 14–21 days. For small and medium-sized businesses this means restricted cash flow, stress, and risk of insolvency.

The good news? 70–80% of overdue invoices can be recovered without going to court - if you act systematically and professionally.

5-step action plan

Step 1: Polite reminder (1–3 days after due date) - assume good faith, send a friendly email or SMS. ~40% of clients pay after this.

Step 2: Firm reminder (7–14 days) - more assertive tone, mention consequences. ~25% more respond.

Step 3: Formal payment demand letter (14–30 days) - official PDF document with all legal details.

Step 4: Warning about consequences (30–60 days) - last chance before escalation.

Step 5: Escalation (60+ days) - debt collection agency, legal proceedings, or debt sale.

Automation instead of manual work

Terminovo automates the entire amicable debt recovery process. Cost: PLN 1 per reminder. No subscription, no commission. See how much you can save.