How to make an invoice step by step
Making an invoice correctly doesn't require expensive software or accounting knowledge: just follow a clear order and don't forget any required field. Here are the steps.
1. Gather your company's and client's details
You'll need the name, tax ID, address, email and phone for both the issuer and the client. If you have a logo, this is the time to add it for a more professional look.
2. Assign an invoice number
Numbering must be sequential and without gaps. If it's your first invoice of the year, you can start at 0001. See how to number invoices if you are unsure.
3. Add the issue date and due date
The issue date is the day the invoice is generated. The due date shows the payment deadline (for example, 30 days later).
4. List the products or services
For each item, add a clear description, the quantity, the unit price and the applicable VAT rate. The sum of all lines is your subtotal.
5. Calculate VAT and the total
VAT is calculated on the subtotal for each tax rate. If you are unsure about the rates, see how to calculate VAT. The total is the subtotal plus VAT.
6. Add payment terms and notes
State how payment should be made (bank transfer, cash...) and any extra information the client should know.
7. Download and send the invoice
Generate the PDF or Excel file and send it by email or chat. With PreFactur you can do all of this for free, with nothing to install.
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