Invoice layout guide
Free Invoice Template: What to Include
Updated October 7, 2026 · By New Invoice Generator
An invoice template gives you a consistent place for the details a customer needs to identify a bill and understand the amount due. A useful template includes seller and customer information, an invoice number, dates, itemized charges, a total, and payment instructions.
Use the free invoice generator to fill out a live invoice preview, customize its labels, add an optional business logo, and print or save the finished document as a PDF. The current draft is stored in your browser.
Common fields in an invoice template
- Seller details: the business or individual issuing the invoice and appropriate contact information.
- Customer details: the person or business responsible for payment and any billing information needed to identify them.
- Invoice number: a reference you can use to find the invoice in your own records.
- Issue and due dates: when the invoice is issued and when payment is expected.
- Payment terms: when payment is due, plus any agreed instructions or method.
- Itemized charges: a description, quantity or hours, rate, and amount for each product or service.
- Subtotal and adjustments: the subtotal and any applicable tax, discount, shipping, or other agreed charge.
- Total due: a clear final amount in the selected currency.
- Optional note: a short message or additional information for the customer.
Example of a simple invoice layout
Invoice · Invoice no. INV-1042 · Issued October 7, 2026 · Due October 21, 2026
From: Your business name and contact details
Bill to: Customer name and billing details
| Description | Qty | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consulting service | 3 hours | $100.00 | $300.00 |
| Subtotal before applicable tax or other charges | $300.00 | ||
Payment terms: Due within 14 days
Payment instructions: Add the method your business accepts.
This sample is illustrative only. It does not establish tax treatment or legal requirements.
Make the template fit the work
For hourly services, show hours and the hourly rate. For a fixed project, state the milestone or service covered by the fee. For products, identify each item and quantity. Keep descriptions specific enough for a customer to recognize the purchase, but avoid putting confidential details on a document that will be shared.
Required invoice fields differ by location and transaction type. Check local tax and recordkeeping rules; a generic free invoice template cannot determine which legal fields apply to you.
How to use the online invoice maker
- Open the invoice builder and enter the invoice number, currency, issue date, due date, and payment terms.
- Add business and billing details. Upload a logo if you want one on the document.
- List the products or services and enter quantity, rate, and any applicable tax.
- Review invoice tax, discount, shipping, notes, and payment instructions.
- Check the live preview, then choose Print / PDF to print or save the invoice as a PDF.
The editor does not submit your invoice to a customer. You review, download, and send the document using your own method.
Want to fill out a template now?
For a fuller walkthrough, read how to create an invoice step by step.