Tools
Is Your Invoice Ready for a Letter Before Action?
Last updated: June 2026
0 of 9 evidence items checked. This is an educational self-check, not legal advice, and does not store your answers.
What evidence strengthens an LBA?
A strong Letter Before Action rests on clear, documented facts: the contract or agreed terms, the invoice, proof that work or goods were delivered and accepted, a record of reminders, and verified details of the debtor. The more complete your evidence, the easier any later step — whether internal review, solicitor instruction, or a court claim — becomes.
Company debtor vs sole trader
The process differs by debtor type. Where the debtor is a limited company, the court's Practice Direction on Pre-Action Conduct applies (commonly a response window of at least 14 days). Where the debtor is an individual or sole trader, the Pre-Action Protocol for Debt Claims applies, with a 30-day reply period and prescribed information. This is general information, not legal advice.
WolfX is software for evidence-backed invoice recovery workflows. WolfX is not a law firm, debt collection agency, court, or payment processor. This site provides general information, not legal advice.
Sources
- Practice Direction on Pre-Action Conduct and Protocols — Ministry of Justice (Civil Procedure Rules)
- Pre-Action Protocol for Debt Claims — Ministry of Justice (Civil Procedure Rules)
Frequently asked questions
What evidence do I need?
Typically the contract or agreed terms, the invoice, proof of delivery or acceptance, a record of reminders, and verified debtor details. Stronger evidence supports any later escalation.
Does an unanswered LBA mean court?
No. An unanswered Letter Before Action does not automatically lead to court. Court action is a last resort and a separate decision you make, often with a solicitor.
Is an LBA mandatory before court for a company debt?
The court expects reasonable pre-action steps under the Practice Direction on Pre-Action Conduct. Whether and how to escalate is your decision; this tool is not legal advice.
Ready to prepare an evidence-backed LBA?