Sample details are filled in. Replace them with your own. Without an account, nothing leaves your browser.
Want your logo on it, saved clients, and no footer? How to get Pro.
My documents / Sign in
How to get Pro
- Sign in. Use your email. No password: we send you a link. Sign in
- Pick a plan. $5 a month or $39 a year. Cancel any time. No refunds for partial periods, except where the law requires it.
- Pay on Stripe. You check out on Stripe's secure page. We never see your card.
- Come back here. Your Pro tools turn on by themselves: logo, saved clients, unlimited sync, no footer.
What to include
- The project or engagement name and any purchase order number
- The billing period
- Hours at your rate, or the fixed fee and milestone it covers
- Reimbursable expenses as separate lines
- Payment terms such as net 30 and how to pay
Tips
- Put the client's PO number in the notes. Many companies will not pay without it.
- Attach a short summary of work done if hours are large.
- Send the invoice to the accounts payable contact, not only your project sponsor.
Invoicing for consulting work
A consulting invoice should connect the money to the value delivered. Reference the engagement or statement of work, the period covered, and a short description of the work. A line such as Strategy workshop and written recommendations, Oct 2026, per SOW dated Sep 15 is more useful than a single lump sum.
Common billing models
- Hourly: list hours by task or by day, with your rate.
- Fixed fee: a set price per project, often billed in milestones.
- Retainer: a monthly fee for an agreed amount of availability or work.
- Value based: a price tied to results, spelled out in the contract.
Expenses and approvals
Bill reimbursable expenses, such as travel, software, and printing, on separate lines and attach receipts if the contract requires it. Keep the markup, if any, in line with what you agreed. For corporate clients, include the purchase order number, the approver's name, and the right invoicing contact, since many accounts payable teams will reject an invoice that does not match.
Payment terms for consultants
- Be specific: Net 30 means due 30 days from the invoice date.
- For longer projects, invoice monthly or at milestones instead of waiting until the end.
- Include your tax ID or business registration number if the client needs it.
- Note your accepted payment methods, including bank details only where it is safe to do so.
Questions
What payment terms should I use?
Net 30 is common with larger companies. Smaller clients often pay faster with net 14 or due on receipt. See our guide on invoice payment terms for the tradeoffs.
Should expenses be on the same invoice?
Usually yes, as separate lines. Keep receipts in case the client asks.
More invoice templates
Related guides
This template is general information. Requirements for invoices vary by place and industry, so check local rules or ask an accountant.