What is an invoice and when do you need one?
An invoice is a formal payment request sent from a service provider to a client after work is completed — or sometimes before, as a deposit request. It records what was done, how much it costs, and when payment is due. Without an invoice, there's no paper trail.
If you're a contractor, freelancer, handyman, or anyone doing paid work, sending a proper invoice protects you. It sets clear expectations on amount and due date, gives the client something to reference for payment, and gives you documentation if you ever need to follow up or prove the work was billed.
What to include in a professional invoice
A good invoice has your name or business name, your contact info, the client's name and address, a unique invoice number, an itemized list of services or materials, applicable taxes or discounts, the total due, and a due date. Guri's invoice generator includes all of these fields and compiles them into a clean, print-ready PDF.
Common invoice terms explained
Net 30 means payment is due 30 days from the invoice date — it's the most common standard for contractors. Net 15 and Net 7 are faster options for smaller jobs or new clients. You can also add a late fee in the notes field to encourage on-time payment. If you accept Venmo or Zelle, mentioning your preferred method in the notes helps your client pay you faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this invoice for any type of work?
Yes. The invoice template works for services, labor, materials, or any combination. Use the line items section to break out exactly what you're billing for.
How do I add my payment information?
Use the Notes field at the bottom of the form. Add your Venmo handle, Zelle number, or preferred payment method — whatever your client needs to pay you.
What does "Net 30" mean?
Net 30 means the client has 30 days from the invoice date to pay. Net 15 gives them 15 days, and Net 7 gives them a week. For smaller jobs, Net 7 or Net 15 is reasonable to ask for.
Is a PDF invoice legally valid?
Yes. A PDF invoice is a standard business document accepted by clients, accountants, and tax authorities. It creates a paper trail of the transaction.