Invoice templates / freelance writers
Freelance Writer Invoice Template
Writers get paid per word, per piece, per hour or on a monthly retainer, and clients mix them. An invoice that says exactly which piece, at which rate, for which kind of work gets approved faster and questioned less.
Example line items for freelance writing
These are examples of how to word lines, not prices. Use your own rates.
Blog post, 1,200 words
One line per piece, with the title or a short reference so the client's accounts team can match it to a brief.
Editing and revisions beyond the agreed rounds
Show extra rounds as their own line so it is visible they were outside the quote.
Research and interviews, per hour
Use an hourly line when the work was not covered by a flat piece rate.
Monthly retainer, 4 articles
Say what the retainer covers and the month it is for.
What to put on a freelance writing invoice
- The title or brief reference for each piece
- The word count or rate basis (per word, per piece or per hour)
- The client's purchase order or project code if they gave you one
- Whether usage rights are included or sold separately
- How to pay, with the account or payment link
For the basics every invoice needs, see what to put on an invoice.
Payment terms
Many writers use Net 15 or Net 30 and invoice on delivery or on publication. Whichever you choose, agree it in writing before you start and print it 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 invoice on delivery or on publication?
- Invoice on delivery unless your contract says otherwise. Publication dates are in the client's hands, and waiting for them can leave you unpaid for work you finished.
- Can I put a kill fee on an invoice?
- Yes, as its own line, if your agreement includes one. Name it as a kill fee and reference the piece, so it is clear what it is for.