Guides for invoices, quotes and business paperwork

Short, practical answers to the questions people ask when they bill a client, confirm a payment or order from a supplier. Each guide links to a free generator so you can put it into practice.

All guides

How to write an invoice: what to include, with an exampleStep-by-step guide to writing a professional invoice: the details it must contain, how to number it, payment terms, taxes and common mistakes.3 min read
Invoice vs receipt: what is the difference?An invoice asks for payment, a receipt confirms it. Learn when to send each one, what they contain and why you often need both.2 min read
Quote vs estimate: which one should you send?A quote is a fixed price, an estimate is an approximate cost. See when to use each, what to include, and how to turn an accepted quote into an invoice.2 min read
Proforma invoice vs commercial invoice for import and exportWhat a proforma invoice is, how it differs from a commercial invoice, and which one customs, banks and buyers need when you ship goods abroad.2 min read
What is a credit note and when should you issue one?A credit note reduces or cancels an invoice after a return, an error or a discount. Learn when to issue one, what it must contain and how it differs from a refund.2 min read
From purchase order to invoice: the documents of a sale explainedPurchase order, sales order, packing slip, delivery note and invoice: who issues each document, when, and how they connect in a typical sale between businesses.2 min read