Late or unpaid invoices are more than just inconvenient, they can restrict cashflow, disrupt operations, and in some cases jeopardise business growth. Many businesses hesitate to take legal action too soon, but there is a straightforward and cost-effective first step that often results in payment without needing to go to court: issuing a Letter Before Action.
At Talbots Law, Talbots Collect helps UK businesses recover unpaid invoices quickly and efficiently, using a fixed-fee structure that makes legal debt recovery both transparent and commercial.
What Is a Letter Before Action?
A Letter Before Action (LBA) is a formal notification to your debtor warning that legal proceedings may follow if the outstanding invoice is not paid. It is required under the Civil Procedure Rules and is a mandatory step before issuing court proceedings.
A compliant letter must include:
- The details of the unpaid invoice(s)
- The original due date for payment
- Any statutory or contractual interest due
- Reasonable recovery costs
- A clear deadline for response
- Copies of invoices and/or a statement of account
For many businesses, receiving a solicitor-issued LBA is enough to prompt payment without the need to go to court.
How Long Does a Debtor Have to Respond?
Once sent, the debtor must usually be given either 14 or 30 days to respond, depending on the type of debtor and complexity of the dispute.
If they fail to reply within that timeframe, you are then able to issue court proceedings.
Why Use Talbots Collect?
We specialise in helping UK businesses recover unpaid invoices quickly, lawfully and cost-effectively. Our service is designed to remove friction, reduce delay and protect your cashflow.
Our approach includes:
| Benefit | What It Means for You |
| Fixed fee | You know the cost upfront — no hourly rate uncertainty |
| Volume discounts | The more invoices you instruct us on, the lower your effective fee |
| Success credit | If the debtor pays, part of your fee is offset |
| Compliance built-in | Every letter is drafted in line with the Pre-Action Protocol |
| Business-first focus | We help you take decisive action without damaging commercial relationships unnecessarily |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need a solicitor before recovering a debt?
Not legally, but a solicitor-issued letter carries more weight and is more likely to secure payment without litigation.
What if the debtor disputes the invoice?
The Letter Before Action process helps flush out disputes early. If a defence is raised, we can advise you on next steps before costs escalate.
Can I claim interest and costs?
Yes. In most commercial situations you are entitled to claim statutory interest and reasonable recovery costs on top of the principal debt.
Does this service apply UK-wide?
Our Talbots Collect service supports businesses across England and Wales.
Ready to Recover Unpaid Invoices?
If you are dealing with late or unpaid invoices and need a practical first step toward recovery, our Debt Recovery Team can help you issue a compliant Letter Before Action quickly and with minimal disruption to your business.
Speak to our team for support on 0800 118 1500 or complete the form below.
Disclaimer
The contents of this blog or any other published by Talbots Law cannot be considered as legal advice. You should take no action without prior consultation with a qualified solicitor or legal professional. The contents of this blog refers to the process in England and Wales.
This blog was written by Tessa Rhodes, Associate & Debt Recovery Manager, in our Dispute Resolution Team.