A formal written request to do something before a lawsuit.
A demand letter is a formal written request — to pay, to stop, to fix, or to return something — sent before filing suit. It sets out what you want, why you’re owed it, and a deadline, and it builds a record that you tried to resolve the matter first. Many disputes settle at this stage precisely because a written demand signals you’re serious.
“Demand is hereby made for payment of $2,400 within fourteen (14) days of this letter.”
Main AI reads your actual document and flags exactly where terms like these put you at risk — in plain language, with the law behind it.
Analyze my document free →The effective ones are specific and unemotional: the exact amount or action, the facts and any contract term that supports it, a firm deadline, and a clear statement of what happens next if it’s ignored. Some claims legally require a demand first — certain security-deposit and consumer statutes won’t let you sue until you’ve demanded payment and given time to cure. Keep proof of delivery; the letter is often the first exhibit if the dispute reaches court.
See this in your own document: run a free analysis — findings quote the exact language.
“If we do not receive payment by the above date, we will pursue all available legal remedies without further notice.”
That closing line is the leverage — a credible next step. An empty threat weakens the letter, so only state consequences you’re actually prepared to follow through on.