For when your first notice went unanswered — shorter timeline, firmer language, and the consequence stated plainly.
Use this only after a first notice went unanswered. The warmth of the first notice was ignored, so this version earns its firmness: shorter deadline, consequence stated plainly, and still one open door — a single phone call. Don't send the first version twice; repeating warmth that was ignored teaches families it's optional.
BEFORE YOU SEND
Dear [Parent Name],
I'm following up on my message from [Date] about the balance on your account. Because I haven't heard back, I want to be clear about where things stand.
Your account balance of $[Amount] for [Month/Period] remains due. To keep everything in good standing, I need payment — or a conversation about a plan — by [Date, 3 business days out].
If we haven't connected by then, our enrollment agreement requires us to begin the formal collections process. I don't want that for your family, and one phone call is all it takes to avoid it: [Phone Number].
[Child's Name] is a joy to have here, and I mean it when I say I'd rather solve this with you than around you. Please reach out today.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Center Name]
[Phone Number]
Adapt It
What Not To Say