Client Said They Paid but Payment Not Received: Email Template
"It's been sent" is either true and stuck somewhere, or a stall. Either way, the fix is the same: ask for transfer details so you can trace it, politely and quickly.
Free template
Replace every [bracket] before sending.
Subject: Re: invoice [Invoice #] payment
Hi [Client Name], Thanks for letting me know payment was sent. I have not seen it arrive yet on my end ([checked account / processor] as of [today's date]). Could you send the date, amount, method, and any transaction ID or check number? That will let me trace it quickly with my bank. Appreciate it, [Your Name]
Ask for traceable details
- Date sent and method (ACH, wire, card, check, PayPal).
- Amount and the account or email it was sent to.
- A transaction ID, remittance advice, or check number.
Double-check your own accounts, spam folder, and payment processor first.
Free mini-pack: 3 more follow-up templates (HTML + PDF), no signup.
Related guides
- Second payment reminder email
- Partial payment, remaining balance email
- Late payment text message to client
- Invoice 30 days overdue email
- Client not responding to invoice
Want every step of the sequence ready?
Chase-Free Client Follow-Ups is a $19 digital pack with 12 copy-paste emails (soft nudge, value bump, deadline, final notice, and proposal follow-ups) plus a tracker CSV for what to send next. Instant download, 30-day refund.
Practical communication guidance only, not legal advice. Payment terms, late fees, and collection options depend on your contract and jurisdiction.