An invoice is a request for payment. A clear one gets paid faster because the customer knows what they owe, why and by when. This guide covers what to include and how to work out the numbers. You can start from our free invoice template.
Updated November 2026
What every invoice needs
- The word Invoice and a unique invoice number.
- The invoice date and the due date.
- Your name or business name, address and contact details.
- The customer’s name and address.
- An itemised list of what you provided, with quantity, price and line total.
- Subtotal, any tax or discount, and the total due.
- Payment terms and how to pay.
Worked example
| Item | Qty | Price | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logo design | 1 | $450.00 | $450.00 |
| Extra revision rounds | 2 | $60.00 | $120.00 |
| Subtotal | $570.00 | ||
| Tax at a sample 8% | $45.60 | ||
| Total due | $615.60 | ||
In Excel: line total =B2*C2, subtotal =SUM(D2:D3), tax =D4*0.08, total =D4+D5. The 8 percent is only an example. Use the rate that applies to you, if any.
Payment terms
Terms say when payment is due. “Net 30” means payment is due 30 days after the invoice date. An invoice dated November 2, 2026 is due December 2, 2026: =A1+30. Shorter terms such as due on receipt get money in sooner. State any late fee before you send the invoice.
Tips for getting paid
- Send the invoice as soon as the work is done.
- Use numbers that never repeat, such as INV-0001.
- Put the payment method and account details on the invoice.
- Follow up politely a few days before and after the due date.
Different jobs, different templates
For trades, see the contractor invoice template. If you use Google Sheets, there is a Google Sheets invoice template. To send invoices automatically, read about invoice automation.
Tax and invoice rules differ by place, so check what applies to your business.
Frequently asked questions
What should be on an invoice?
Invoice number, dates, seller and buyer details, itemised charges, totals, tax if any, and payment terms.
What does net 30 mean?
Payment is due 30 days after the invoice date.
Do I need to charge tax?
It depends on where you work and what you sell. Check with your tax office.
Is there a free invoice template?
Yes. The invoice template on this site is built for Excel.