What to include on an invoice
A clear, complete invoice gets paid faster and avoids back-and-forth. Here's what to put on every invoice, whether you're a freelancer or a small business.
Must-haves
Tax invoice rules vary by country — if you charge VAT, GST or sales tax, check what your tax authority requires.
- The word 'Invoice' and a unique, sequential invoice number.
- Your business name, address and contact details.
- The client's name and address.
- The issue date and payment due date.
- An itemized list of products or services with quantities, rates and line totals.
- Subtotal, any discount, tax, and the total amount due.
- How to pay: bank details, a payment link or accepted methods.
Often required or helpful
- Your tax registration number, if you're registered.
- A purchase order or project reference from the client.
- Payment terms, such as Net 14, and any late payment fees.
- A short thank-you note.
Tips to get paid faster
- Send the invoice as soon as the work is delivered.
- Use item descriptions the client's accounts team will recognize.
- Make paying easy — include every detail needed to send money.
- Follow up politely on the due date.
Tools used in this guide
Related guides
What to include on an invoice — FAQ
Yes. A unique, sequential number makes invoices easy to track, and tax invoices require one in many countries.