Late Fees on Invoices in New Hampshire
What New Hampshire contractors and small businesses need to know about charging late fees, interest rates, prompt payment laws, and mechanics lien deadlines.
Max Interest Rate
10% per annum (default legal rate); higher by written agreement
Small Claims Limit
$10,000
Small Claims Court (District Court)
Mechanics Lien Deadline
120 days from the last day of furnishing labor or materials
New Hampshire Prompt Payment Act
New Hampshire Prompt Payment Act, RSA § 447:12-a
New Hampshire requires state agencies to pay within 30 days. Private construction follows contract terms with lien enforcement under RSA § 447.
Late fee rules for New Hampshire invoices
New Hampshire allows contractual late fees without a usury cap on commercial transactions. The state's lien law is relatively straightforward.
New Hampshire's default interest rate is 10% per annum. There is no general usury statute, so commercial contracts may specify higher rates.
Important disclaimer
This page provides general information about New Hampshire late fee rules. It is not legal advice. Laws change, and your specific situation may have unique factors. For disputes involving significant amounts, consult a licensed attorney in New Hampshire.
Demand letters and mechanics liens in New Hampshire
New Hampshire does not require a formal demand letter, but written notice to the property owner is recommended before filing a lien.
Mechanics lien deadline: 120 days from the last day of furnishing labor or materials. A lien must be filed with the town or city clerk.
Sample late fee clause for New Hampshire invoices
“Payment is due within the terms specified above. A late fee of 1.5% per month (10% per annum (default legal rate); higher by written agreement maximum per New Hampshire law) will be applied to all balances remaining unpaid after the due date. Pursuant to New Hampshire RSA § 447:1 et seq. (Liens of Mechanics and Others), the undersigned reserves all rights to pursue collection including but not limited to mechanics lien filing, small claims action (up to $10,000 in Small Claims Court (District Court)), and referral to collections.”
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Start Free TrialFrequently asked questions — New Hampshire
What is the maximum late fee I can charge on an invoice in New Hampshire?▾
In New Hampshire, New Hampshire's default interest rate is 10% per annum. There is no general usury statute, so commercial contracts may specify higher rates. Always disclose late fee terms in your contract or invoice before work begins.
Does New Hampshire have a prompt payment act?▾
Yes. New Hampshire requires state agencies to pay within 30 days. Private construction follows contract terms with lien enforcement under RSA § 447.
What is the small claims court limit in New Hampshire?▾
The small claims court limit in New Hampshire is $10,000. Claims are filed in Small Claims Court (District Court). You generally do not need an attorney for small claims.
How long do I have to file a mechanics lien in New Hampshire?▾
In New Hampshire, 120 days from the last day of furnishing labor or materials. A lien must be filed with the town or city clerk.
Do I need to send a demand letter before filing a lien in New Hampshire?▾
New Hampshire does not require a formal demand letter, but written notice to the property owner is recommended before filing a lien.