Guides
Invoice guides
Clear answers to common invoicing questions for freelancers, small businesses and tradespeople. Rules on tax and late payment vary, so each guide points you to official sources.
Getting started
How to Create an Invoice: A Step by Step Guide for Beginners
Learn how to write a professional invoice with our step by step guide. Cover essential details, taxes, and layouts to ensure you get paid on time today.
What to Include on an Invoice: A Complete Checklist
Ensure your invoices are professional and compliant. Use our checklist for essential details, VAT requirements, and specific tips for UK tradespeople.
A Guide to Professional Invoice Layouts for Freelancers
Learn how to structure a professional freelance invoice for design, writing or consulting. Step by step layout tips to ensure you get paid on time.
How to Number Invoices: Best Practices and Systems
Learn how to use sequential invoice numbering, prefixes, and year-based systems. Fix numbering mistakes and avoid duplicates for professional billing.
Money and terms
A Guide to Invoice Payment Terms and Clear Wording
Learn how to choose and write invoice payment terms like Net 30 or Due on Receipt. Practical tips for freelancers and small businesses to improve cash flow.
How to Add VAT or Sales Tax to Your Invoice
Learn how to calculate VAT or sales tax, show tax-inclusive vs exclusive prices, and use Invoice Maker Simple to create accurate tax invoices for free.
How to Show Discounts on an Invoice
Learn how to calculate and display percentage and fixed discounts on invoices. Includes worked examples, tax calculations, and professional wording tips.
How to Chase Unpaid Invoices Politely and Effectively
Learn how to follow up on late payments with professional email templates, a clear timeline, and tips for maintaining positive client relationships.
Types of invoice
Invoice vs Receipt: Key Differences and When to Use Each
Learn the difference between an invoice and a receipt, when to issue them, and what to include in each. A complete guide for freelancers and small businesses.
A Guide to Proforma Invoices for Small Businesses
Learn what a proforma invoice is, when to use it, and how it differs from quotes and final tax invoices. Perfect for freelancers and small businesses.
Invoicing Guide for Tradespeople: Labour and Materials
Learn how to invoice for labour, materials, call-out fees, and deposits. Professional tips for plumbers, electricians, and builders using Invoice Maker Simple.
How to Invoice for Hourly Work and Track Time Clearly
Learn how to track time, set rates, and present hourly invoices clearly. A guide to professional billing for freelancers and small businesses.
Managing Recurring and Retainer Invoices Effectively
Learn to manage monthly client retainers, consistent numbering, and how to save time by duplicating invoices for regular billing cycles.