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Correspondence file · 01

Say it in writing. Demand letter guides and templates

Demand letter guides for the moment a conversation needs a paper trail. Find a clear starting point by dispute, issue, or state.

Two quick answers

Before you send anything.

the basics

What is a demand letter?

A demand letter is a written notice you send before filing a lawsuit. It states what happened, what you are owed, and what you want the other party to do by a specific date. It is not a court filing and does not require a lawyer to write.

check local rules

Do I need to send a demand letter before small claims court?

Some courts or claim types require a pre-filing request for payment. Even when one is not required, a documented demand letter can show that you gave the other party a chance to respond. Check the rules of the specific court and claim type you plan to use.

Why it matters

A little formality can go a long way.

01
Creates a documented record

A formal demand letter shows you gave the other party a chance to respond before going to court. That documented record can matter depending on the court and jurisdiction. Check the specific rules that apply to your situation.

02
Gives the other side a chance to respond

A written demand makes the requested payment or action clear and sets a response date. The recipient can respond, propose a resolution, or decline before you decide whether to take another step.

03
Sets out your claim clearly

A well-written demand covers who you are, what happened, what you are owed, a response date, and what you plan to do next. Vague demands are easier to ignore. Specific ones are harder to dismiss.

Find your matter

Start with what happened.

Local context

Filed under where it happened.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Security Deposit Not Returned

Write and send a demand letter for unreturned security deposit

View Las Vegas guide →

Ready when you are

Put your side on the record.

Petty is a self-help tool that organizes your information and offers optional sending support.

Answer questions about your dispute
Get a structured demand letter draft
Optional certified mail sending via USPS
Email delivery with read receipt support
State context included in your letter
Keep copies and track your documentation
Guides for court filing if needed
Petty is not a law firm or legal advisor

Self-help preparation tool. For complex disputes, consult an attorney.

Common scenarios

The familiar files.

Security deposits

Unreturned security deposit

Many states set deadlines for landlords to return deposits. A written demand can document the request and the timeline before you consider next steps.

Contractor disputes

Incomplete or defective work

When a contractor does not finish the job or leaves work that fails to meet the agreed standard, a demand letter records what went wrong and what remedy you are seeking.

Unpaid wages

Wages not paid on time

Withholding wages, commissions, or final checks may violate state labor law. A demand letter creates a written record before you escalate to a labor agency or court.

Small claims by state

Your court has its own rules.

Petty is a self-help platform, not a law firm. No legal advice or guarantees of outcomes.