Client not paying — what now?
Annoying, awkward, time-consuming. But there's a clear path: friendly reminder, formal notice of default, possibly collection. Most cases resolve in step 1. FactuurSturen.app sends automatically — you don't chase yourself.
The 4 stages
Stage 1 — Friendly reminder
Within 7 days of the due date: short friendly mail "invoice still open, possibly overlooked". Works in 60-70% of cases.
Stage 2 — Notice of default
No reaction after ~14 days: formal reminder with 14-day term (mandatory for consumers). After this, collection costs and statutory interest are allowed.
Stage 3 — Collection agency or DIY
No payment 30 days after notice of default? Engage a collection agency (% commission, no fees if they collect nothing) or go to the subdistrict court yourself.
Stage 4 — Bailiff
Last resort: bailiff with enforceable judgment. Expensive (€500–€2000), only worthwhile above ~€1,500 invoice value.
What FactuurSturen.app does automatically
Stages 1 and 2 happen on autopilot.
Day 1 after due date
Automatic friendly reminder — short, polite, with payment link.
Day 14 after due date
Second reminder, slightly firmer. Statutory interest is announced.
Day 28 after due date
Third reminder: formal notice of default with 14-day term and collection costs listed.
After that
You get a notification. Decision is yours: collection agency, court, or write off as uncollectible.
Frequently asked questions
Difference between reminder, formal reminder and notice of default?
Reminder = friendly nudge (not legally binding yet). Formal reminder = firmer, with deadline. Notice of default = legal document stating "you are in default as of X days" — only after this may you charge collection costs and statutory interest. For consumers, a free 14-day reminder before collection costs is mandatory.
Which collection costs can I charge?
Per the WIK schedule: minimum €40, above that depending on invoice amount (e.g. 15% on the first €2,500). The out-of-court collection costs are fixed — you cannot deviate.
May I charge statutory interest?
Yes, from the moment of default (after the free 14-day reminder for consumers, immediately after due date for business clients). Statutory interest 2026: approx. 7% (consumer) / 12% (business).
When to engage a collection agency?
After the notice of default and if the client still hasn't paid after 30 days. Collection agencies often work on no-cure-no-pay (15-25% commission on success). For amounts under €500 it's rarely worthwhile.
Can I write off an invoice as uncollectible?
Yes. In case of client bankruptcy or after a documented collection process. You get the VAT back from the tax authority (suppletie filing). FactuurSturen.app marks the invoice as "uncollectible" and keeps it separate from your turnover overview.
Never chase your own money again
Automatic reminders on days 1, 14 and 28. You hear back only when it's truly needed.
What does it cost?
From €2 per month. All features in every plan. Cancel monthly.