Rental Past-Due Notice / Dunning Letter template and PDF guide...
Prepare overdue payment notices online, then generate a dunning PDF for formal collections follow-up. Use this when a tenant's rent is overdue and you need to formally notify...
When to use this template
Prepare overdue payment notices online, then generate a dunning PDF for formal collections follow-up. Use this when a tenant's rent is overdue and you need to formally notify them of the past-due amount, demand payment, and document the notice as a required step before escalating to eviction proceedings.
What to include
- Tenant name, property address, and the specific amount past due — broken down into base rent, late fees, and any other unpaid charges.
- The original due date, how many days the payment is overdue, and the lease clause or state law that authorizes the late fee.
- A clear deadline to pay (e.g., 'within 3 days of this notice') that complies with your state's pay-or-quit notice requirements.
- Accepted payment methods and where or how to deliver payment, plus contact information if the tenant needs to discuss a payment plan.
- A statement of consequences: if payment is not received by the deadline, you will begin eviction proceedings as permitted under the lease and state law.
Common questions
- Can I create this Rental Past-Due Notice / Dunning Letter online for each overdue account?
- Yes. Enter due amounts, deadlines, and escalation language in-browser before sending.
- Can I save this Rental Past-Due Notice / Dunning Letter flow for recurring collections activity?
- Yes. With an account, save and reuse it to keep reminder cadence and messaging consistent.
- Can I generate a formal collections PDF from this Rental Past-Due Notice / Dunning Letter?
- Yes. Export a professional notice PDF suitable for email and documented delivery.
- How many days do I have to give before filing for eviction?
- It varies by state. Most states require a 3-day, 5-day, or 14-day 'pay or quit' notice before you can file for eviction. Serving this notice is a legal prerequisite — you cannot skip it.
- Can I charge a late fee on top of the past-due rent?
- Yes, if the late fee is stated in the lease and complies with state law. Some states cap late fees at a percentage of rent (commonly 5-10%). Check your state's limits.
- What if the tenant makes a partial payment?
- You can accept it and apply it to the oldest balance, but be careful — in some states, accepting partial payment may reset the eviction timeline. Consult local rules before accepting.
- Can I post this notice on the tenant's door?
- Delivery methods vary by state. Many allow posting on the door if the tenant is not home, but some require personal delivery or certified mail. Use the method your state law specifies to ensure the notice is legally valid.