1. Review against one date
Change the as-of date before every review. A fixed review date keeps the same invoice from appearing current one day and stale the next without explanation.
2. Keep money, contact and promises separate
Record the invoice amount and receipts to calculate the remaining balance. Then record the last real contact and any promised payment date. A promise without a date remains an open input.
3. Treat disputes differently
A disputed invoice needs clarification before routine payment follow-up. The workbook surfaces that state separately instead of putting every overdue balance into the same reminder sequence.
4. Work the calculated action
Use the example rows to learn the actions, including invalid input. A future payment promise stays WAIT FOR PROMISE; a promise due today becomes REVIEW PROMISE TODAY. Correct missing or invalid amounts, dates and statuses before taking action. A future promise is not a reason to chase payment early.
5. Keep the boundary visible
The workbook does not send reminders, verify bank settlement, add fees or decide tax, accounting, credit or collection questions. Review the contract and applicable rules before contacting a client.