Self-employed invoice template

About this document

Being self-employed usually means invoicing under your own name rather than a company's, and it means the record-keeping is yours. Number your invoices sequentially and keep every one — most tax authorities expect an unbroken run, and a gap is the first thing anybody looks for.

You do not need accounting software to invoice properly. What you need is a consistent number series, your details on every document, clear descriptions, and a copy kept somewhere you can find it. Every invoice you download here is recorded so you can reopen or duplicate it later.

What belongs on a self-employed invoice

• Your own name, plus any trading name you use
• Your address and contact details
• A sequential invoice number with no gaps
• The client's name and address
• A clear description of the work and the period it covers
• The amount due and the date it is due
• Your payment details
• A tax or business number, if you have one

This is general information, not tax or legal advice. Requirements differ by jurisdiction and by the kind of work you do — check with your own accountant or tax authority if anything is unclear.

Questions

Can I invoice under my own name?

In most places, yes — sole traders commonly invoice under their personal name, optionally with a trading name alongside. Requirements differ by country, so check what applies to you.

What invoice numbers should I use?

Anything sequential and consistent. INV-0001 onwards is fine, and so is a year prefix like 2026-001. The tool advances the number for you, so the series stays unbroken.

Do I need to charge VAT or GST?

Only if you are registered for it, which usually depends on your turnover. If you are not registered, do not charge it — remove the tax section entirely.

How long should I keep my invoices?

Several years in most jurisdictions, and the exact period varies. Keep your own copies somewhere durable — the history here lives in one browser and is a convenience, not an archive.