What Is a Demand Letter?
A demand letter is a formal document that asks someone to fulfill an obligation, like paying a debt or honoring a contract, before taking further legal action.
Why Send One?
- It’s often the first step before filing a lawsuit.
- It shows the other party you’re willing to resolve things fairly.
- It creates a written record that could help if you end up in court.
Individuals or businesses can use demand letters to collect money, enforce agreements, or settle other disputes.
Demand Letters: By Type
Demand letters aren’t just for unpaid bills. They’re used in many situations where you need to formally ask someone to fulfill an obligation or correct a problem. Our customizable templates cover different types of demand letters, making it easy to create one that fits your exact situation and helps protect your rights.
Use to request money owed to you or your business
Payment
A document used to launch breach of contract disputes against a party for violating the terms of an agreement
Breach of Contract
A document used to request a refund in exchange for a return of a good or service
Refund
A document used to request another party to pay their fair share of child care costs
Child Support
A document used to demand immediate payment from an employer for unpaid wages
Unpaid Wages
A document used to launch settlement negotiations for the harm suffered in an accident
Personal Injury
A document used to file a complaint in a Small Claims court
Small Claims/Offer of Settlement
A document used to request an individual or entity to return a piece of personal property
Personal Property
A document used to respond to a demand for payment letter sent by another party
Response
A document use by a tenant to formally request the return of security funds from a landlord
Security Deposit
Our guided template helps you customize your letter to fit your situation, so it’s clear, detailed, and legally sound.
Can You Send a Demand Letter Without a Lawyer?
Yes, you can absolutely send a demand letter on your own. In fact, many people handle this step without hiring a lawyer.
When It’s Smart to Get Help:
- The situation is complex or involves large sums of money.
- You’ve tried sending a letter, but they ignored it.
- You’re preparing to file a lawsuit.
- An attorney already represents the other side.
Even without a lawyer, using our template ensures that your letter includes the right details and maintains a professional tone.
How to Write a Demand Letter
A good demand letter is clear, calm, and convincing. It lays out the facts, explains what you want, and gives the other party a chance to fix the problem before things escalate. Here’s how to do it step by step.
1. State the Facts
Start by explaining what happened. Keep it straightforward: include dates, amounts, and any promises or agreements. Stick to the facts and skip personal opinions. Do not insert overly emotional language when describing the facts.
2. Clearly Outline Your Demand
Say exactly what you want the recipient to do to make things right. Be specific so there’s no room for misunderstanding.
Example: “I am requesting payment of $3,200 for services completed on March 15, 2025.”
3. Set a Deadline
Let the recipient know how long they have to respond or pay, usually 7 to 30 days. This shows you’re serious and gives them a fair chance to fix the issue.
Example: “Please pay the amount in full by July 15, 2025.”
4. Describe the Consequences
State what you’ll do if you don’t receive a response. This might include taking the recipient to the small claims court, hiring a collections agency, or seeking legal action.
Example: “If I do not receive payment by this date, I will pursue legal remedies, including filing a claim in small claims court.”
5. Attach Evidence
Add copies (never originals) of invoices, contracts, emails, photos, or other evidence that proves your case. This backs up your demand and shows you’re prepared.
6. Keep it Professional
Avoid threats or emotional language. Stay calm and respectful. A professional tone makes it more likely they’ll take your letter seriously, and it looks better if you later show the letter in court.
How Long Should a Demand Letter Be?
Usually 1–2 pages. Long enough to explain the situation, but not so long that it gets ignored.
Demand Letter Sample
Use our free template to create your demand letter quickly. Just fill in the blanks with your details.
How to Send a Demand Letter
How you deliver your demand letter can make a big difference. Here are your best options:
- Certified mail with return receipt: This gives you proof they got it.
- Courier service requiring a signature: Another secure way to confirm delivery.
- Email: Fast, but less formal. Use only if you can get a read receipt.
Can I Email a Demand Letter?
Yes, but keep in mind that email is easier to ignore. A mailed letter (with proof of delivery) often has more impact.
What Happens After You Send a Demand Letter?
After sending your letter, a few things might happen:
- They pay or comply: In the best case, the dispute is resolved.
- They make a counter-offer: You can negotiate or stick to your original demand.
- They ignore it: Then you may consider the next steps, like small claims court or speaking with an attorney about your legal options.
How Long Does it Take to Settle?
Many cases settle within weeks of sending a demand letter. However, it depends on how willing the other party is to resolve things.
What Should I Do if the Other Party Doesn’t Respond?
If you don’t hear back by your deadline, you can:
- File a claim in small claims court or another appropriate forum for your case
- Contact a collections agency
- Seek mediation or arbitration
- Talk to a lawyer about further action
