Before you send a demand letter

• The exact legal name and address of the person or business you're writing to RequiredFor a company, check the New York Department of State's business entity search; you'll need the same name if you sue
• The contract, agreement or messages that show what was promised Required
• A short, dated account of what went wrong Required
• The exact amount you're asking for and how you calculated it Required
• A clear deadline to respond — often 10 to 14 days Required
• A way to send it that you can prove: certified mail with return receipt, plus email if you have one Required
• Copies (never originals) of key documents to attach Recommended
• A calm, factual tone — no threats and no insults RecommendedThe judge may read it later
• A copy of the signed letter and the mailing receipt for your file Recommended
• If a business is the one claiming: check the commercial claims rules OptionalCommercial claims generally require a demand letter sent at least 10 days before filing

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