Invoicing Basics
How to Write an Invoice for Services (With Example)
How do you write an invoice for services? List your details and the client's details, add a unique invoice number and dates, describe each service with hours or a fixed price, show the total, and add payment instructions. You do not need experience or special software: the steps below and the example will get you there.
Step-by-Step: Write an Invoice for Services
- Write "Invoice" at the top with your business name and contact details.
- Add the client's name, company, and billing address.
- Give the invoice a unique number and add the invoice date and due date.
- List each service with a clear description, hours or quantity, and rate.
- Add the subtotal, any tax or discount, and the total due.
- Add payment terms and how the client can pay.
- Check every detail, save as a PDF, and send it.
Invoice for Services Example
| Service | Hours | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logo design, 2 concepts | 6 | $60.00 | $360.00 |
| Brand colour palette and font guide | 3 | $60.00 | $180.00 |
| Revisions (2 rounds) | 2 | $60.00 | $120.00 |
| Total due | $660.00 |
Hourly Rate or Fixed Price?
For hourly work, show hours and rate on separate lines so the client can check the math. For a fixed price, describe what is included, such as "Website design, up to 5 pages, 2 revision rounds, $1,500." Choose whichever matches what you agreed with the client.
What to Avoid
- Vague descriptions like "services rendered."
- Missing due dates or payment instructions.
- Reusing invoice numbers.
- Leaving out the currency for international clients.
See common invoice mistakes for the full list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a business to write an invoice for services?
No. Freelancers and sole traders can invoice under their own name. Whether you need to register or charge tax depends on where you live, so check local rules.
What should I write in the description column?
What you did, for whom, and when, briefly. For example: "Homepage redesign, delivered March 4–18."
Write Your Invoice Online
Use our free invoice generator to add your services, rates, and totals, then download a PDF. For the complete checklist, read what should be included on an invoice, or follow the full process in how to create a professional invoice.