How to politely request late payment from a film production company client

Late payment from a film production company client usually comes down to their process, not bad faith. Here's who pays, when, what tends to hold payment up, and a polite reminder you can send today.

Who pays, and when

A production manager or line producer approves. A production accountant pays. Payments follow each production's budget and schedule. Crew are often paid weekly.

Why payment runs late

Productions wind down quickly, and invoices sent after wrap can get lost.

Tips for chasing a film production company client

• Invoice before the production wraps, or as soon as you can after.
• Address the production accountant and include the production name.
• Keep call sheets or delivery notes as proof of work.

Example reminder email

Subject: Quick reminder: invoice [number] Hi [first name], I hope all's well. Invoice [number] for [amount] was due on [date]. If it's already on its way, thank you, and please ignore this. This invoice is for my work on the production named below. Who is the production accountant for this project? You can pay here: [payment link] Thanks, [Your name]