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How to Make an Invoice as a Freelancer in India (With Format)

If you freelance as a designer, developer, writer, consultant or photographer, you need professional invoices to get paid and to keep your records tidy for tax. The good news is that a clear invoice is easy to create.

What a freelancer invoice should include

  • The word Invoice (or Tax Invoice if you are GST-registered)
  • Your name or business name, address, phone, email, and PAN (optional on the invoice but useful)
  • Your GSTIN if registered
  • Client name, address and GSTIN (if they are registered)
  • A unique invoice number and the date
  • Description of work with the SAC code if you charge GST
  • Quantity or hours, rate, and amount
  • GST amount if applicable and the total, in figures and words
  • Bank or UPI details and the due date

Do freelancers need GST?

If your annual turnover from services is below the registration limit, you may not need GST registration, although registering can help when your clients are businesses that want input credit. Some freelancers must register regardless of turnover, such as those making certain interstate supplies of goods. Read GST registration limit and check with a CA, especially for exports of services.

Unregistered freelancers

If you are not registered, do not charge GST. Issue a simple invoice without GST and without a GSTIN. Do not use the words "tax invoice".

Invoice number and records

Use a sequence like FL-2026-001 and never reuse a number. See numbering rules. Keep a copy of every invoice and receipt for your income tax return.

Tips to get paid on time

  1. Send a quotation and get written approval before starting.
  2. Take 30 to 50% advance for new clients.
  3. State payment due in 7, 15 or 30 days, and a late fee if you wish.
  4. Add a UPI QR code on the invoice (how to).
  5. Send reminders using these templates.

Create your invoice

Use the free invoice generator. Add your logo, services and bank details, preview it and download it as PDF in a minute.

General information only, not tax advice. Rules differ for exports and special cases, so consult a CA.