When creating an invoice template the most important thing to remember is not to forget any of the little details. Although it may seem self-explanatory, there’s info you must include on your invoice to make it HMRC-legit.
In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the world of invoicing. That includes how to create the perfect invoice! Impress your clients with a clean, well-designed invoice. You’ll be no less than the talk of the sole trader town!
Whether you’re a self-employed person (a sole trader), a small biz owner, or a freelancer, we’ll show you what you need to know when creating an invoice template.
An invoice is a document asking for payment. It includes a list of the goods or services you’ve provided for your clients/customers, what they owe you and the date they need to make the payment due. Invoices can also be tax documents when sales tax is included, called VAT.
Keep copies of all your invoices so when you file your tax return to HMRC, they’ll have all the info they need and you can avoid any penalties!
Invoices don’t need to be signed. You’ll usually sign a contract before the work begins.
There are many, many types of invoices. Here are a few of the most common:
So, now that you’re more familiar with the kinds of invoices that exist, let’s move on to what actually goes on the invoice itself. It’s nothing you can’t handle!
| Names (or company names) of the buyer and seller | The amount being charged |
| A unique invoice reference number | Any VAT that applies (note: it doesn’t apply to everyone) |
| List of goods and services you’re seeking payment for | The total amount owed |
| The date the goods/services were supplied | When and how to pay (like bank details) |
| The date of the invoice | Include whether late payment fees apply |
According to HMRC, these are the main things you need to include on an invoice. Luckily, you don’t need to memorise this list. You can use our dreamy self-employed invoice template (it’s free 🙌) to personalise and send out your invoice in minutes.
It’s time to level up your invoicing game. Don’t forget any of the little details again because now, it’s all automated! Just fill in the blanks and send off your invoices. It’s time to get your money and get paid 💸
Sign up for our free bookkeeping tools and head to the “my finances” section, it’ll look a little something like this:
Fill in some info:
Send it off once you’re done! You’ll be able to track your invoice and view its status on your dashboard. This way, you won’t miss any invoices or forget to chase them up! Create your invoice template in just a few clicks on our free platform. No more wasting time fiddling around with the technical, boring bits.
Take it one step further and link your bank account for an even more seamless process. Then you’ll be able to see your income and expenses on your accounting dashboard. A full, 360 view of your money.
Get paid faster, keep all your invoices in one place and stay organised – forever. And did we mention it’s free to use? Time to make your life easier and your finances sparklier. And, when tax season approaches, hand it all off to your very own accredited accountant and relax.
Manage your self-employed finances in one place with 10/10 bookkeeping tools.
Or see our Guides, Calculators or Taxopedia