What I actually do when a client doesn't pay (UK freelancer edition)

Last year a client ghosted me after I delivered a project. £2,400 invoice, read receipts on, zero response. Here's the exact escalation process I now follow. It's boring, methodical, and it works. The timeline Day 1 (due date): Friendly reminder Subject: Invoice #INV-042 — payment due today Hi [Name], just a quick note that invoice #INV-042 for £2,400 was due today. Could you confirm when payment will be processed? Happy to resend if needed. No drama. No passive aggression. Just a factual nudge. Day 7: Follow up If nothing, I follow up. Same tone but I add a specific ask: Could you let me know by [date] when I can expect payment? Asking for a date forces a concrete response rather than "yeah I'll sort it." Day 14: Mention terms Now I reference the contract: As per our agreement, payment was due within 14 days of invoice. The outstanding amount is £2,400. Please arrange payment by [date]. I also mention that statutory interest applies under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest