Free tool
The awkward follow-up email, written for you
Pick the situation, set the tone, copy a polite email. Free, no login, nothing leaves your browser.
Your email
Nothing you type leaves your browser.
Edit anything before you copy. Check names, dates and amounts. Changing the options rewrites the email.
How the tone ladder works
Good follow-ups get firmer in clarity, not in pressure. Every version ends with a way for the client to tell you what is holding things up, because it often isn't ignoring you. It's their finance team, a missing login, or a busy week.
- 01CalmAssumes the client is busy and offers an easy next step.
- 02ClearSays exactly what is still open and what it will take.
- 03Firm but politeStates what happens next, for example that work is paused until the invoice is settled, without threats, penalties or legal language.
Situations it covers
- Missing files or content.Waiting on logos, copy, photos or logins.
- Unpaid invoice.An invoice is past its due date.
- Waiting on feedback or approval.A draft has gone quiet.
- No reply after handoff.You delivered, then silence.
- Deposit not paid.You can't start until the deposit is in.
Every email makes one clear ask, names the specific item, and never says “overdue”. It says when something was due instead.
Questions
Is this really free? Do I need an account?
Yes, free. No account and no card. The email is built in your browser, and I don't see what you type.
Will these emails sound rude or pushy?
They are written to be calm, specific and short. None of them uses threats, penalties, legal language or guilt. The firmest version is still polite and ends by asking the client to tell you if something is holding things up.
How many times should I follow up before it gets too much?
A common pattern is a heads-up a few days before the due date, a note on the day, then follow-ups around 3, 7 and 14 days after, then roughly weekly for a short while. After that, pick up the phone or have a direct conversation. Every business and client differs, so adjust.
Should I mention that I'll stop work?
Only if it is true and your contract or proposal says so. If it is, say it plainly and without drama, as in the "firm but polite" version. If you have no written terms, stay with the "clear" tone.
What if the client says they already paid?
Check your records first, then reply with the date and amount you have on file and ask them to send the payment confirmation. Keep it matter-of-fact.
Can I use these for phone or text messages?
These are written for email. Shorter versions often work in a message, but the tool doesn't generate texts.
What about late fees or legal action?
This tool doesn't write those and isn't legal advice. If an invoice is badly delayed, check your contract and local rules, or talk to a professional.
What does Tickoff do?
Tickoff is a single link your client opens, without logging in, to upload files, answer questions and pay the invoice. It sends calm email reminders until it's done and stops when everything is done. Free for one active client; Pro is $15/month for unlimited.
Do you store my emails or my client's details?
No. Nothing you type is stored or sent anywhere. The email is generated in your browser.