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Pre-action letter

A pre-action letter (previously known as a letter before action) is the final step before starting court proceedings. It formally demands payment and warns the debtor that legal action will follow if they don't pay.

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What is a Letter Before Action?

A letter before action is a formal letter sent to a debtor before starting court proceedings. It serves several important purposes:

  • Evidence of Warning — Shows the court you attempted to resolve the dispute before legal action
  • Final Opportunity — Gives the debtor a last chance to pay before court proceedings
  • Legal Requirement — Often required by court rules and good practice
  • Cost Evidence — May support claims for legal costs if you win in court

What Should Be Included

A letter before action should be clear, professional, and include:

  • Your name and address
  • The debtor's name and address
  • The amount owed and why it's owed
  • A clear deadline for payment (usually 7–14 days)
  • A warning that court proceedings will follow if payment isn't received

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Download Templates

Choose from the following template formats. All templates contain the same content but in different file formats to suit your needs.

Word Document

Modern Word format (.doc)

Download Word Document

Rich Text Format (Recommended)

Compatible with most word processors (.rtf)

Download RTF Template

Word 97

Legacy Word format (.doc)

Download Word 97 Document

Plain Text

Universal text format (.txt)

Download Plain Text

Browser Configuration

You may need to configure your browser before you can view some of these documents. If you have trouble opening a file, try downloading it first or using the plain text version.

How to Use the Template

Step 1: Download and Customize

Download the template and fill in your specific details, amounts, and dates

Step 2: Set a Reasonable Deadline

Give the debtor 7–14 days to respond — this shows reasonableness to the court

Step 3: Send by Recorded Delivery

Use recorded or registered post so you have proof of delivery

Step 4: Keep Copies

Keep copies of the letter and proof of posting for your court case

Next Steps

After sending your letter before action, if the debtor doesn't pay by your deadline, you can start court proceedings.

Debtor didn't pay?

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