1. Fill in the template in 5 steps
- Click Make a copy in Google Docs. The template opens in your own Google Drive, and you can edit it freely. The original stays untouched.
- Add your details: replace the bracketed text with your business name, address and email, then add your client’s details.
- Add your logo: click the placeholder, then choose Insert, Image.
- List the work: fill in the line items and type the subtotal, any sales tax and the total.
- Download the PDF and send it: check the invoice number and due date, then choose File, Download, PDF document. A PDF is safer than a shared Doc link because your client cannot change it.
Tip: rename your copy with the invoice number and client name, for example “Invoice 0042 Brightside Cafe”. For the next invoice, make a copy of your own filled-in version, so your details are already there.
2. What to include on an invoice
- 1The word “Invoice”.
- 2A unique invoice number. Count up in order (0041, 0042) and never use a number twice.
- 3Your name or business name, address and contact details.
- 4Your client’s name and address.
- 5The issue date and the due date.
- 6What you are charging for, with quantity and rate.
- 7Sales tax, if it applies to what you sell, and the total due.
- 8How and where to pay, and your payment terms.
Whether you have to charge sales tax depends on your state and on what you sell. Check the rules for your state before you add it. This template only gives you a line to fill in.
3. A template or an invoicing app?
A Google Doc is a good start. Once you send invoices every week, here is what each option does for you.
| What you get | Google DocsFree template | Google SheetsFree template | EasyInvoice14-day free trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adds up totals and sales tax for you | With formulas | ||
| Keeps your invoice numbers in order | You type them | You type them | |
| Shows who has paid and who is overdue | You track it by hand | ||
| Sends the PDF by email, WhatsApp or text | Export a PDF, then send it | Email or export a PDF copy | |
| Recurring invoices for monthly clients | |||
| Your customers and items saved for next time | You copy them from old invoices | You copy them from old invoices |
14 days free. No card needed.
