Write a clear, firm demand for payment before going to small claims court. Enter who owes you, how much and why, add any interest or fees your agreement allows, choose a deadline and your state, and get a formal letter with the total, a payment deadline and the next step you will take. Interest and totals are calculated for you.
Last updated:
From (the person owed)
To (the person who owes)
The debt
What the money is for
$
Your demand
days
10–30 days is common.
$
Only charges your agreement allows, e.g. a returned-check fee.
%
Only if your contract or state law allows it. Simple interest from the due date.
$
Check your state court website; limits change and can differ by court.
Tone
Enter your values to see the result.
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How to use the Demand Letter Generator
Enter your details and the debtor's name and address.
Choose what the money is for, the amount, the original due date and a short description.
Add interest or fees only if your agreement or state law allows them.
Set the deadline, payment methods and your state, and optionally your state's small claims limit.
Copy, print or download the letter, sign it and send it by certified mail with return receipt.
What a strong demand letter contains
The amount: one clear total, with a breakdown if it includes interest or fees.
Why it is owed: the invoice, contract, loan or event, and the date payment was due.
Your earlier attempts: dates of reminders, calls or emails.
A deadline: a specific date, not "as soon as possible".
The next step: that you will file in small claims court if you are not paid.
A door left open: an invitation to contact you about a payment plan.
The calculations
Figure
Formula
Example
Days overdue
today − due date
Oct 24 − Aug 31 = 54 days
Simple interest
amount × rate ÷ 100 × days ÷ 365
$1,850 × 5% × 54 ÷ 365 = $13.68
Total demanded
amount + interest + fees
$1,850 + $13.68 + $0 = $1,863.68
Payment deadline
today + days to pay
Oct 24 + 14 = Nov 7
Before you file in small claims court
Gather evidence: contracts, invoices, receipts, photos, messages and your demand letter with proof of delivery.
Check your state's small claims limit, filing fee and the time limit (statute of limitations) for your type of claim on the official court website.
File in the right place, usually the county where the other party lives or does business or where the agreement was made.
Security deposit claims often have special state rules, such as a deadline for the landlord to return the deposit or send an itemized list.
Frequently asked questions
What is a demand letter?
A demand letter is a formal written request for money you are owed, sent before you file a lawsuit. It states the amount, why it is owed, a deadline to pay and what you will do if payment is not made. Many disputes are settled at this stage, and some small claims courts expect you to have asked for payment first.
How long should I give the other party to pay?
10 to 30 days is common; 14 days is a reasonable middle ground. Check whether your state or your contract sets a specific period for your type of claim.
Can I add interest to a demand letter?
Only if your contract provides for it or your state law allows it. The tool uses simple interest: amount × yearly rate × days overdue ÷ 365. For example, $1,850 at 5% for 54 days is $1,850 × 0.05 × 54 ÷ 365 = $13.68.
What is the small claims limit in my state?
Each state sets its own maximum, and limits change and sometimes differ by type of court or by whether you are a business. Look it up on your state or county court website and enter it in the tool to check your claim. If your claim is over the limit, you may be able to give up the excess or file in regular civil court.
How should I send a demand letter?
Send it by certified mail with return receipt requested, or another tracked method, and keep a copy plus the receipt. You can also email a copy. The proof of delivery shows the court that you tried to resolve the matter.
Is this legal advice?
No. The tool produces a general template. Rules on interest, security deposits, notice periods and court procedure vary by state. For large amounts or complex disputes, consider consulting a lawyer or your local legal aid office.
Is my information saved?
No. Everything is calculated in your browser and nothing is uploaded. Your entries are only remembered in this browser.
Are all the tools on FreeToolCabin tested for quality and accuracy?
Yes! Every tool on our site undergoes automated Q/A testing in real browser environments to ensure high precision, correct output, and zero errors. If you happen to spot a bug or have a suggestion, please contact us at [email protected] and our team will review it right away.