While it’s possible to do this in Google Docs or Google Sheets, specialized software typically goes a step further by helping you capture customer account information and by issuing payment reminders to customers with an outstanding balance. On top of that, many invoicing software options generate online invoices and downloadable PDFs so that it’s easy for customers to view the documentation and download a copy for themselves. This is especially true when designing a custom invoice. While it’s possible to build your own invoices in Microsoft Word and Excel (or in the G-Suite), it’s typically faster to use invoicing software to create professional invoices.įor small businesses, freelancers, and organizations with a limited finance department, using specialized software as an invoice generator is faster and easier to handle. Invoicing has come a long way in the last few years. Invoices also help businesses keep track of what they’ve paid for and what they still owe, making them essential from a bookkeeping perspective. The purpose of an invoice is to consolidate all of this essential information into a single, summarized document so that customers can easily review the work or goods received and remit payment. Acceptable payment methods (credit card, PayPal, etc.).Terms of payment, including due date and late fees.A subtotal (before sales tax) and a final amount owed by the customer.

Line items detailing the goods and services received.Invoice number and account number for easy reference.Issuer’s contact information, including the business name, address.Typically, a simple invoice will include the following: The invoice provides customers with the information necessary to pay the issuer and includes a list of goods and services received from the issuing organization. What is an invoice and what is it used for?Ī business invoice is a request for payment from a business to its customer.

Free word invoice template