How to Write a Letter of Demand of Allowance

Make sure you send your demand letter by certified mail.

If you are in a legal dispute over finances or allowance, it is helpful to write a demand letter before going straight to court. About one-third of all potential financial quarrels can be resolved by a letter. A letter is sometimes a prerequisite of small claims court, so sending a demand letter before a subpoena is a good idea.

Instructions

1. Review the conflict. If the case does end up going to court, this letter will most likely serve as a piece of evidence that the other party was aware and notified of the situation. Write exactly what happened, briefly but clearly. Don't include any details that could be used against you by the other party.

2. Ask for a resolution. Be clear in your demand and ask for a specific amount of money paid by a certain date.

3. Be professional. Don't attack the person you are writing to and remember to be polite. If you end up in court, the judge hearing your case will read this letter. Keep a copy of the letter for your records.

4. Make your next move clear. Tell the person that you will go to court if your demands are not met by your deadline. Then follow through.

5. Send the letter. Use registered mail so you can get a receipt -- further proof that you mailed the letter.

References

• Legal Zoom; The Do's and Don'ts of Writing a Demand Letter; Monica Sanders; April 2008
• Rights and Remedies; How to Write a Demand Letter; Shannon Salter; March 2009
• Nolo: Demand Letters