Letter of demand in South Africa: template and steps

Quick answer

A letter of demand formally asks a client to pay a specific amount by a specific date, and says what you will do if they don't. It is usually the last step before court, and the Small Claims Court expects you to send one first, giving at least 14 days to pay.

What to include

• Your details and the client's full name or company name
• The invoice number(s), dates and amount owed in rand
• What the amount is for, with reference to your quote or agreement
• A clear deadline (commonly 14 days from delivery)
• Your banking details and payment reference
• What happens next — for example Small Claims Court or debt collection
• Your signature and date

How to send it

• Email it as a PDF and keep the sent email
• Also send by registered post or hand delivery if the amount is large
• Keep copies of the quote, invoice, reminders and WhatsApp messages

After the deadline

If you're an individual or sole proprietor and the claim is R20,000 or less, you can use the Small Claims Court yourself without a lawyer. For larger amounts, the Magistrate's Court or a lawyer or debt collector is usually next. Ordinary debts generally prescribe (expire) after three years, so don't wait too long.

Get the template

The Starter Kit includes a ready letter of demand alongside the invoice, statement of account and contractor agreement it refers to.