An invoice is essentially a bill that you send to clients for your products or services. This may seem simple: You tell them the amount owed, and they pay it. Nonetheless, it is much more nuanced than this.
What’s included in your invoices can make a big difference in terms of receiving prompt payment and avoiding having to collect on unpaid debts. What should your invoices include?
A representation of your brand
A simple Excel invoice may do the job. Many freelancers and small businesses use these. Nonetheless, does this represent your brand enough? For a more professional look, you may want to consider using invoices with your logo and other branding. This might help encourage clients to ensure that they pay.
Branding on your invoices can be a simple way to reflect professionalism and concern about details, right down to how invoices look. Clients will know a company that operates this way is unlikely to let unpaid invoices go.
The key details
Of course, the presentation of your invoices means nothing if it does not contain the relevant information. Your clients need to know how much they have to pay and when the amount is due. They need to know who they can contact with questions about the invoice. They need to see a precise description of the products and/or services they have been charged for.
The easier you make it for clients to pay, the more likely they are to do it. So, your invoice should contain the different payment options that you offer, as well as any payment plans and discounts.
Getting invoices right may seem simple, but it is often the most simple steps that help to avoid collection lawsuits. Seek legal guidance to find out more about making your invoicing procedures more efficient and legally watertight.