4 min read · Updated 2026
How to chase late payments in South Africa
A polite-to-firm sequence for overdue invoices, letters of demand, interest and small claims options for South African freelancers.
Prevent it first
- Take a deposit
- Get a purchase order number before invoicing corporates
- Confirm the client's payment-run dates
The reminder sequence
- Day 1 overdue: friendly reminder with the invoice attached
- Day 7: firm reminder referencing your contract's interest clause
- Day 14: pause work and send a final notice
- Day 21+: letter of demand
Small claims court
The Small Claims Court handles claims up to R20 000 at no cost and without lawyers — useful for smaller unpaid invoices.
General information only, based on South African legislation as of 2026. Confirm your situation with a registered tax practitioner or attorney.