Payment term 30 days = payment due within 30 days. Overdue for 90 days = 60 days past due. This is not "slow". This is clearly in arrears. The following is the practical upgrade sequence. Step 1: Stop the "reminder" and change it to a formal notification "When will the number come out?" Now change it to: This is a formal notice that invoice #_ dated _ became due on _ (payment period 30 days) and remains unpaid for 60 days past due. Please remit payment within 7 calendar days. Please indicate the date of the invoice Write expiry date Indicate the number of days past due give deadline Speak calmly, professionally and documentable. Step 2: Add overdue fees (if written in the contract) If you have: 1%–1.5% monthly interest terms The calculation can now begin. $8,000 × 1.5% × 2 months = $240 Write the amount to email: As of today, late charges total $_. This will change the other person's mentality. Step 3: Send a reminder letter (formal reminder letter)
If no payment is made within 7 days: Send a formal reminder letter: Title: Demand for Payment List the total amount owed (including interest) List deadline (e.g. 10 days) List legal action to be taken Many production companies will pay at this step. Because you've entered a legal rhythm. Step 4: Small claims litigation (commonly used in film and television) If the amount does not exceed $10,000, In California: You can file a lawsuit directly with small claims court. Production companies typically don’t want to: Take the time to appear in court There is a record of judgment Recovered by the court Many will settle after receiving court notice. Step 5: If the amount is large Lawyer's letter civil litigation If there is an attorney fee clause, the pressure will be even greater reality Procrastinating for 90 days is usually not forgetting. yes:
They are testing your ability to move. Common patterns in the film and television industry: Delay for 60 days first Another 90 days See if you can forget it Important reminder If you're still working for them: Stop new work immediately. If the contract has a stoppage clause, it can be officially started. Don’t continue to provide services while being delayed in payment. If there is no Written Contract Still can chase. Emails, call sheets, invoices are all evidence. In California, these certificates are accepted in small claims court. Core conclusion Payment term changed from 30 days to 90 days, It’s no longer a matter of “patience.” is: Whether to upgrade processing. Order: Formal demand → demand letter → small claims lawsuit Delayed payment is common for film and television companies. But the legal process will change the other party's attitude.