Invoice templates / freelancers
Freelance Invoice Template
Freelancers are paid per project, per hour or on a retainer, often by several clients at once. A clear invoice that names the project, the period and the rate gets approved quickly and shows you are organised.
Example line items for freelance work
These are examples of how to word lines, not prices. Use your own rates.
Project: brand identity, final delivery
Name the project and the stage, so the client can match it to their records.
Hourly work, 12 hours
Show the hours and the rate, not a lump sum, if the work was hourly.
Monthly retainer, March
Name the month a retainer covers.
Rush fee, delivery within 48 hours
Show surcharges as their own line, if you agreed them.
What to put on a freelance work invoice
- The client's name and any project or PO reference
- What you did, and the period
- Your rate or the agreed fee
- Payment terms and how to pay
- Your tax number where your country asks for one
For the basics every invoice needs, see what to put on an invoice.
Payment terms
Many freelancers use Net 14 or Net 30, with a deposit for new clients. Put your terms in the proposal and repeat them on the invoice.
Type Net 30 (or Net 7, Net 15) in the Payment terms box and the due date fills in. Payment terms explained.
Questions
- Should I ask for a deposit?
- For new clients or large projects, many freelancers do. State the amount and when the balance is due, in the agreement and on the invoice.
- How often should I invoice?
- On delivery for a project, or monthly for ongoing work. Invoice promptly, because the payment terms count from the invoice date.