Formal complaint letter template

A complaint in writing starts a formal process that a phone call does not. This template keeps it factual and dated, states what you want to happen, and gives a deadline to reply by.

Free to use and edit. You pay only if you have it printed and posted.

The template

Formal complaint — template Square brackets are yours to fill in
Dear Sir or Madam,

Complaint: [brief description] — reference [reference number]

I am writing to make a formal complaint about [what happened].

On [date], [set out what happened, in order. Keep to facts you can evidence, and quote dates, times, reference numbers and the names of anyone you dealt with.]

I have already [describe any contact you have had about this — calls, emails, chat — with dates]. The matter remains unresolved.

To resolve this, I would like you to [state exactly what you want: a refund, a repair, an apology, a correction to your records].

Please reply within [14] days of the date of this letter. If I have not heard from you by then, I will refer this matter to [the relevant ombudsman or regulator].

Yours faithfully,

[Your name]
[Your address]
[Your contact number]
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