Email templates that recover failed payments without burning bridges.

Hey [First Name], just a quick note that we weren't able to process your latest payment of [Amount] for [Product Name]. This happens sometimes and usually resolves itself. We'll retry automatically, but if you'd like to update your payment method now, just click below. No action needed if your card info is current.

Hi [First Name], we've tried processing your payment of [Amount] a couple of times now without success. Your subscription is still active, but we want to make sure there's no interruption to your service. The most common fix is simply updating your card on file. Takes about 30 seconds.

Hi [First Name], we've been unable to process your payment of [Amount] for [Product Name]. To avoid any disruption to your access, please update your payment method in the next 48 hours. After that, we'll need to pause your subscription until the payment goes through. We'd hate to see you lose access.

This isn't a single email. It's a branching logic sequence that adapts based on the Stripe decline code. Soft declines (insufficient_funds) get a gentle nudge and automatic retry at optimal times. Hard declines (expired_card, stolen) skip retries and go straight to 'update your payment method' with a direct Stripe Customer Portal link.