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Explain
Provide details, such as how much money you are owed, who owes you the money, and when your dispute happened.
Demand
Customize your letter by choosing how you want to be paid and deciding when you must be paid.
Send
You can download your letter for free, or pay us to mail it via certified or priority mail with tracking updates.
Evita el tribunal con una carta de demanda.
Custom & Effective
Create a professionally written and customized demand letter to show that you are serious, and will take them to court if they don’t pay.
Fast & Affordable
Creating a demand letter takes only 10 minutes. Get your money back without the time and expenses of court.
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Send the letter via certified mail (complete with tracking) with just a single click on your phone or computer.
Precios
Carta de demanda
$0
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¿Necesitas que enviemos tu carta por ti? Desde $29.50.
Cada carta adicional después de la primera cuesta $10.
*Algunas cortes requieren que envíe una carta de demanda antes de presentar una demanda.
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Traducción al español
Agregar firma electrónica
Impresión y envío por correo
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Notificaciones de seguimiento y entrega
Apoyo prioritario por correo electrónico
Cumplir con los requisitos de la Corte*
Este no es un servicio de abogado.
*Algunas cortes requieren que envíe una carta de demanda antes de presentar una demanda.
Carta de Demanda de Un Abogado
$300
Membrete de Abogado
Redactado y firmado por un abogado.
Enviado con membrete de un bufete de abogados.
Impresión y envío por correo
Entrega confirmada por Correo Certificado®
Notificaciones de seguimiento y entrega
Cumplir con los requisitos de la Corte*
Este es un servicio de abogado.
*Algunas cortes requieren que envíe una carta de demanda antes de presentar una demanda.
A demand letter shows you’re serious and determined to get the money you’re owed. Many people resolve their problems by sending a demand letter. Additionally, if you resolve your problem with a demand letter you can avoid having to go to court.
Learn more in our guide on when to send a demand letter vs. sue in small claims.
Learn more in our guide on what to do if you don't receive a response to a demand letter.
Some courts require proof that you tried to resolve the problem before filing a small claims lawsuit.
We have two types of demand letter services:
Our self-serve demand letter tool, where an attorney will not review your demand letter and
A service where one of our attorneys will write and send your demand letter for you.
Learn more about his vision for equal access to justice and why he believes everyone deserves to be heard.
Remember, our interactive demand letter template will help you structure your demand letter correctly and help you include attachments.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Other Party’s Name]
[Other Party’s Address]
Via USPS
RE: [insert subject line]
Dear [Other Party’s Name],
I am contacting you demanding payment for[amount owed]. I am attempting to resolve this out of court, but if we cannot come to an agreement, I intend to sue.
Here is a statement of my case that I intend to submit to the court:
I entered into an agreement with [other party’s name] that stated they would come to my home and build a backyard deck. The agreement stated that [other party’s name] would come on [date on the agreement] and start working on the deck. [Other party’s name] did not show up on the date of the agreement or any time after that. As per the terms of the agreement, I paid [other party’s name] $3,000 in advance so they could buy the necessary equipment to build the deck. I am now demanding $3,000 from [other party’s name] for breaking our agreement.
I look forward to resolving this matter amicably. If you would like to discuss this further, you may contact me at [your email]. Please send me a check payable to my name to the address listed above.
If I do not hear from you by [14 days from now], you leave me no alternative but to file a lawsuit against you. In the event of a lawsuit, I intend to seek redress to the fullest extent permitted by law, including, but not limited to, additional damages, legal services costs, court costs, and accrued interest.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
Learn more about demand letters to contractors for refunds.
Remember, our interactive demand letter template will help you structure your demand letter correctly and help you include attachments.
Roommate
888 N. Windfall Drive
Lansing, MI 48910
October 5, 2025
Ex-Roommate
888 N. Windfall Drive
Lansing, MI 48910
Via FedEx
Dear Ex-Roommate,
I am contacting you demanding payment for $900. This letter is an attempt to resolve this matter outside of court, however, if we cannot come to an agreement, I intend to sue.
I intend to submit the following information to the court:
I loaned Ex-Roommate $900 on July 23, 2025, to help them pay for repairs to their car. As agreed upon at the time of the loan, repayment was expected in full by August 23, 2025. However, as of today, October 5, 2025, the loan amount remains unpaid, and Roommate refuses to take any of my calls or messages. If immediate repayment of the full $900 is too difficult, I can accept $100 payments through Zelle until the full $900 is repaid.
I hope to resolve this matter amicably, and I am open to discussing mediation. You can contact me at [email protected] if you would like to discuss this matter further. Please send me a check written to the name and address written above.
If I do not hear from you by October 19, 2025, you leave me no alternative but to file a lawsuit against you. In the event of a lawsuit, I intend to seek redress to the fullest extent permitted by law, including, but not limited to, additional damages, legal services costs, court costs, and accrued interest.
Sincerely,
__________________
Roommate
Remember, our interactive demand letter template will help you structure your demand letter correctly and help you include attachments.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Via USPS Certified Mail
Re: Failure to Return Security Deposit
Dear [Landlord’s Name]:
I am writing to request that you return my security deposit in the amount of [insert amount owed]. I am attempting to resolve this out of court, but if we cannot come to an agreement, I intend to sue.
Here is a statement of my case that I intend to submit to the court:
I moved out of my rental unit located at [address of rental unit] on [date you moved out]. I gave a [amount paid as a security deposit] security deposit when I moved into the apartment, which I was entitled to receive at the end of my lease period. It is now [date], and I have not received my security deposit back from [landlord’s name]. [Your state’s security deposit law] provides that a landlord has a [time frame by which your security deposit needs to be returned] to return a tenant’s security deposit. I am now demanding [amount owed] as per [your state’s security deposit law].
I look forward to resolving this matter amicably. If you would like to discuss this further, you may contact me at [your email]. Please send me a check payable to my name to the forwarding address listed above.
If I do not hear from you by [14 days from now], you leave me no alternative but to file a lawsuit against you. In the event of a lawsuit, I intend to seek redress to the fullest extent permitted by law, including, but not limited to, additional damages, legal services costs, court costs, and accrued interest.
Sincerely,
_____________________________
[print your name]
Learn more about security deposit demand letters.
Remember, our interactive demand letter template will help you structure your demand letter correctly and help you include attachments.
Landscaping Lads, Inc.
456 Corporate Ave
El Paso, Texas 79835
September 18, 2023
Jerry Johnson
654 Client ST
El Paso, Texas 79835
Via USPS Certified Mail
Re: Outstanding Payment for Services Rendered
Dear Jerry,
I am contacting you demanding payment of $900. This letter is an attempt to resolve this matter outside of court; however, if we cannot come to an agreement, I intend to sue.
I intend to submit the following case to the court:
I am the business owner of Landscaping Lads, Inc., and offer premium landscaping services for clients looking to maintain and/ or upgrade their residential and commercial landscaping needs. Jerry came to Landscaping Lads, Inc. on May 7, 2023, and requested we plant cacti in various locations on his residential property. I sent Jerry a request for payment of $900, and we planted the requested cacti in their specified locations. It is now September, and Jerry refuses to pay for the services rendered. I have tried to contact Jerry and sent several notices reminding him of the payment I am owed, but Jerry continues to reject paying $900.
I hope to resolve this matter amicably. You can contact me at [email protected] if you would like to discuss this matter further. Please send me a check written to the name and address written above.
I am setting a two-week deadline to resolve this matter by October 2, 2023, before I am left with no alternative but to file a lawsuit against you. If this matter were to result in a lawsuit, I intend to seek the payment I am rightfully entitled to, along with additional damages, legal services costs, court costs, and accrued interest.
Sincerely,
__________________
Landscaping Lads, Inc.
Common Types of Demand Letters We Handle
Unreturned Security Deposit
Landlord failed to return all or a portion of your security deposit by the deadline.
Unpaid Invoices
Your client failed to pay you for services performed or goods sold.
Travel or Hotel Issues
Asking for a refund after receiving poor service, such as an unsafe rental or a canceled trip with no refund.
Subscription or Membership Billing Problems
Requesting cancellation or a refund after being charged for a subscription you didn’t use or cancel in time.
Roommate or Co-Tenant Conflicts
Seeking reimbursement for shared deposits, unpaid utilities, or damage caused by a housemate.
Refund for Canceled Wedding Vendor
Requesting money back after a photographer, caterer, or other vendor cancels at the last minute or doesn’t deliver.
Tutoring, Lessons, or Coaching Refunds
Asking for a refund for missed or unsatisfactory sessions.
Unpaid Pet Sitting or Babysitting
Asking a friend, neighbor, or acquaintance to pay for work you agreed to.
Refund for Fitness Class or Workshop
Requesting your money back after signing up for a class that was canceled or drastically changed.
You can write a professional demand letter using our interactive demand letter template to structure your demand letter correctly.
To write a demand letter on your own, you will need:
The other party's address. Ideally, you will mail your letter so that it can be taken more seriously. Additionally, some states require that your letter be sent using certified mail (we can handle the shipping for you). If you don't have an individual's address, try googling their phone number or consider running a skip trace. If you don't have a business address, you can look up the business information on the Secretary of State website for the states where they do business or are headquartered. For our demand letters written by an attorney, we can help you find the other party's address. You will list the other party's address at the top of the letter.
Start with your request. For example, "I am writing this letter to demand the immediate return of my $3,000 security deposit" or "I am writing this letter to demand the immediate return of my dog, Snoopy."
The facts of the case. Outline what happened that led to you sending a demand letter. You can reference and attach evidence. For example, "On March 3, 2025, the invoice for $4,000 became due. See Exhibit A Invoice."
Provide a deadline. For example, "I demand full payment of the $6,000 by September 1, 2025. I intend to pursue legal action if payment is not received by this date."
Your contact information. To keep a paper trail, try to only offer communication in writing. For example, "If you have any questions, I can be reached strictly via email at [email protected]."
Tips:
Be polite but firm. Don’t insult or threaten the other person.
Stick to facts. Include dates, amounts, and any agreements (written or verbal).
Provide a clear deadline. You don't want confusion when it comes to getting your request met.
Yes, many people take demand letters seriously, especially when they’re clearly written or come from a lawyer on law firm letterhead.
Why demand letters are taken seriously:
It shows you're committed to taking action.
A demand letter is often the step before legal action. It tells the other person you’re ready to take things further. If it comes from a lawyer, it can be even more powerful, as the other party will realize you are equipped to escalate to court if you need to.It creates a paper trail.
If the issue goes to court, the judge will see that you gave the other person a chance to fix things first.It can be a warning.
It lets the person or business know they could face court costs and legal fees if they don't resolve the issue now.
Why some demand letters are not taken seriously:
Some people ignore demand letters, especially if they think they’re not at fault.
If the letter is emotional, vague, or poorly written, they might not take it seriously.
Tip: To make your demand letter more effective:
Be clear, calm, and professional
Include facts, dates, and what you want
Set a deadline for the response
What you don’t say in a demand letter is just as important as what you do say. Here are the main things you should avoid:
Threats of violence or revenge
Never say things like “I’ll ruin your business” or “You’ll be sorry.” That can be illegal and hurt your case.Lies or exaggerations
Don’t make up facts or stretch the truth. If it goes to court, false statements can make you look bad.Emotional language
Avoid name-calling, insults, or venting your anger. Keep it calm and professional.Legal terms you don’t understand
If you use complicated legal language incorrectly, it can confuse things or weaken your message.Promises you can’t keep
Don’t say things like “I’ll sue you tomorrow” unless you’re really prepared to do that.Sensitive personal information
Don’t include things like your Social Security number or banking info, only what's needed for your claim.Open-ended deadlines
Don’t say “Get back to me when you can.” Always set a clear deadline (like 14 days).
Yes, demand letters are often worth it, especially as a first step before going to court. They can save you time, money, and stress.
Why Demand Letters Are Worth It:
They can solve the problem quickly
Many people pay or settle once they get a clear, serious letter.The cost is less than a lawsuit
You can write one yourself for free, or have one written for a small fee.They create a paper trail
Shows you tried to handle things calmly and fairly before taking legal action.They make you look serious
The other side knows you might take the next step if they don’t respond.They give you control
You get to set the tone, explain your side, and ask for a fair solution.
When They Might Not Work:
If the other person refuses to cooperate no matter what.
If your claim is weak or hard to prove.
If it’s a very serious case that needs legal help right away.
Bottom Line: A demand letter is usually a smart, low-risk first step and it often gets results.
We offer three different fixed and affordable pricing options for demand letters to help you manage your legal costs.
Free – Interactive Demand Letter Template
Create a professional, court-compliant letter at no cost using our interactive demand letter template. You’ll be able to download and mail the demand letter yourself.
A good fit if you’re comfortable doing it on your own.
$29.50 – Demand Letter + Shipping
Use our interactive demand letter template, and we will mail your demand letter for you using certified or priority mail. This includes tracking, delivery updates, and priority email support. If your demand letter gets delayed, we’ll replace it for free.
Ideal if you want a hassle-free way to get your letter delivered.
$300 – Attorney Demand Letter
Written and signed by a licensed attorney, it is mailed on our law firm’s letterhead. It comes with certified or priority shipping and tracking. Learn more about our lawyer demand letters.
Many people choose this option when they want to be taken seriously from the start.
At other law firms, the cost of having an attorney send a demand letter can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the lawyer and your location. At JusticeDirect, we keep things simple: $300 flat fee. We use technology to lower the cost of writing your demand letter.
With our attorney demand letter service, your case will be reviewed by a licensed attorney, a custom-written and signed letter on our law firm letterhead, and certified mailing with tracking and confirmation. No hidden fees. No hourly billing.
A demand letter should be detailed enough to clearly explain your case, but not so long that it gets confusing or overwhelming.
What to Include:
Who you are
Your full name and contact info.Who you're writing to
Their name, business (if any), and address.What happened
Explain clearly what happened. For example: “On April 10, 2025, I paid you $500 to repair my fence. You never completed the work.”What you want
The specific amount you’re asking for: “I am requesting a refund of $500.”Why it’s fair
Mention contracts, photos, receipts, or other proof: “I’ve attached a copy of our signed agreement and a photo of the incomplete work.”A deadline
“Please respond by May 21, 2025, so we can resolve this without legal action.”A respectful tone
Stay calm and professional, don’t threaten or insult.
Not Too Much Detail:
Don’t include every little fact or emotion.
Don’t argue or guess at the other person’s reasons.
Save legal talk for court or a lawyer, if needed.
How much you should ask for in a demand letter depends on what you’re owed and what’s fair based on the situation.
Here’s how to figure it out:
1. Start with the actual amount owed
Example: If someone didn’t pay you $500 for work you did, that’s your starting point.
2. Add any extra costs
Late fees (if agreed on before)
Costs you paid because of the problem (like repair bills, shipping, etc.)
3. Include emotional or other damages (only if it makes sense)
Only ask for these if they’re allowed in your kind of case (like injury or harassment claims, or when a statute allows it).
Don’t go overboard; courts don’t like unrealistic demands.
Important Tips:
Be reasonable. If you ask for too much, the other person may ignore you.
Be specific. Break down what you’re asking for (e.g., “$500 for unpaid invoice + $25 late fee”).
If you are having a hard time determining how much to request in your demand letter, consider having a lawyer write a demand letter for you.
Yes, a demand letter can backfire in some situations, especially if it's poorly written and comes across as threatening, unclear, or unprofessional, which might hurt your chances of settling the issue or even be used against you later.
In order to avoid problems, make sure you:
Are calm and respectful.
Stick to facts, don’t exaggerate.
Don’t make threats you can’t follow through on.
Consider having a lawyer write the demand letter for you.
Ways a Demand Letter Could Backfire:
It could be used against you in court.
If your letter has anything false, emotional, or threatening, it might hurt your case later.You look unreasonable.
If you ask for too much or set a deadline that’s too short, a judge might think you're not being fair.Poor Structure.
Writing a letter that’s rambling, unorganized, or unclear about what you actually want may cause the other party to not take you seriously.
A demand letter is not supposed to be a bluff and if it is, it can backfire.
What a Demand Letter Is:
A real warning that you're serious about your claim.
A chance to settle the problem before going to court.
If needed, a way to show the court later that you tried to resolve things fairly.
What a Demand Letter Shouldn’t Be:
A scare tactic with no intention to follow through.
Full of empty threats or made-up claims.
Written just to pressure someone unfairly.
Why Bluffing Is Risky:
The other person might call your bluff and ignore the letter.
If you say something false, it could hurt your case or even lead to legal trouble.
It can damage your credibility if you end up in court.
Bottom Line: A demand letter should be honest, reasonable, and backed by facts.
Yes, you are not required to have a lawyer write a demand letter for you. But in some cases, having a lawyer can make the letter stronger and more effective.
When It’s Okay to Do It Yourself:
The amount of money is small.
The issue is simple and clear.
You feel comfortable writing the letter on your own.
When You Might Want a Lawyer:
You want the letter to be taken more seriously.
The situation is complicated.
A lot of money is involved.
You’re dealing with a business or insurance company.
You’re worried the other person might sue you back.
You want to make sure the letter is worded just right.
Yes, a demand letter can be sent by email, and it’s often a fast and easy way to deliver it. But there are a few things to keep in mind.
When to send a demand letter via email:
Good for informal or first attempts to resolve a problem.
When you have an email program that lets you know if your email has been opened, it ensures deliverability.
But Be Careful:
In some states, you are required to send your letter using certified mail for certain legal matters.
The other person might say they never received it.
It may not look as formal or serious as a mailed letter.
Best Practice:
Send your demand letter by email AND by mail (especially certified or tracked mail).
In the email, say something like: “Attached is a formal demand letter regarding [issue]. Please confirm receipt.”
Tip: Always save a copy of the email, the letter, and any attachments you send. That way, you have a record if the case moves forward.
After you send a demand letter, there are a few possible next steps depending on how the other person responds:
1. They Agree to Settle
They pay you, return the item, or fix the issue.
The dispute is resolved.
2. They Want to Negotiate
They may contact you to offer a lower amount or suggest a different solution.
You can choose to accept, reject, or negotiate further.
3. They Ignore the Letter
If you don’t hear back by your deadline, you can:
Send a final reminder.
Take legal action (like filing in small claims court).
Ask a lawyer to send a follow-up letter.
4. You File a Lawsuit
If the issue isn’t resolved, going to court might be your next step.
If you're going to small claims court, you don't have to hire a lawyer who charges by the hour or asks for a big retainer. Instead, hire a law firm like JusticeDirect Law that offers fixed prices, so you only pay for what you need and can keep costs under control.
5. Keep Records
Save copies of the demand letter, proof of delivery, and any responses.
This shows the court that you tried to solve the problem first.
How long it takes to get a settlement after a demand letter depends on the situation.
Typical Timeframe:
Most people give the other side 7 to 14 days to respond to the letter.
If the other person agrees, you might settle within a few weeks.
If they don’t respond or argue, it could take months or lead to a lawsuit.
What Affects the Timing and Whether the Other Party Will Settle:
How clear the case is.
If it's obvious the other person is at fault, they may settle quickly.How much money is involved.
Bigger amounts usually take longer due to more back-and-forth.Who you’re dealing with.
A person might respond faster than a business or insurance company.How you sent the letter.
Certified mail or email with proof of delivery helps track whether your letter was actually delivered.
Tip: If you don’t hear back by the deadline, you can send a follow-up letter or consider taking legal action (like small claims court).
Learn more about how long you can expect a settlement after sending a demand letter.