A simple invoice generator for freelancers and small businesses
An invoice is a formal request for payment that lists what you supplied, how much it costs and when payment is due. A clear, professional invoice gets you paid faster and gives both you and your client a record for accounting and tax. You do not need accounting software for occasional invoices; this tool produces a tidy, printable document in a couple of minutes.
Everything happens in your browser. Your client details and prices are never uploaded. Your current invoice is saved as a draft in this browser only, so you can close the tab and continue later on the same device.
How to create an invoice
- Enter your business details and the client's details.
- Set the invoice number, invoice date and due date.
- Add each item with a description, quantity and unit price.
- Choose the currency and add any discount, tax or shipping.
- Add payment instructions in the notes, then click Print / save as PDF. In the print dialog choose “Save as PDF” to email it.
How the totals are calculated
Subtotal = Σ (quantity × price)
Discount = Subtotal × discount %
Tax = (Subtotal − Discount) × tax %
Total = Subtotal − Discount + Tax + Shipping
Tax is charged on the discounted amount, which is the usual rule for sales tax and VAT. Shipping is added after tax; if shipping is taxable where you are, include it as a line item instead. Check your local tax rules for what must appear on an invoice, such as a tax registration number.
What to include on an invoice
- A unique, sequential invoice number, for example INV-0001, INV-0002.
- Your business name and contact details, and your client's name and address.
- The invoice date and a clear due date or payment terms such as “Net 14”.
- An itemized list of goods or services with quantities and prices.
- Any tax rate and tax registration number required in your country.
- How to pay: bank details, payment link or accepted methods.
More worked examples
Freelance design job: 12 hours at $85 plus a $150 license fee is a $1,170 subtotal; with a 10% discount and 8% tax the total due is $1,137.24.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Reusing invoice numbers. Use a unique, sequential number for every invoice.
- Leaving out payment terms. State a due date and how to pay.
- Pricing without knowing your margin. Check it with the profit margin calculator.
Sources and methodology
The calculations on this page follow these published standards and references. The code is covered by automated tests against known values.
- Your local tax authority's invoice requirements (for example, tax registration numbers)