A simple invoice template
For one-off jobs, side gigs, or a small shop, you do not need accounting software. A clean page with the essentials looks professional and gets paid.
The seven essentials
- Your details: name or business name, and how to reach you.
- Client details: who you are billing.
- A reference number: unique and in order, such as 004.
- Dates: the issue date and the due date.
- Line items: what you did or sold, the quantity, and the price.
- Total: with tax shown separately if you charge it.
- How to pay: bank details, a payment link, or "cash on collection".
What you can leave out
For small jobs you can usually skip logos, long terms and conditions, and complicated discount tables. Add them later if clients ask. A short note such as "Payment due within 14 days. Thank you!" is enough for most one-off work.
Print it or email it
Download the PDF and attach it to an email with one line: "Hi, attached is bill 004 for $350, due 30 October. Thanks!" Or print it and hand it over for in-person jobs. Keep a copy either way.
When to use something more
If you send many bills a month, need automatic reminders, or track expenses too, accounting software may be worth paying for. For occasional work, a simple PDF is quicker.