How to create the perfect invoice

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The GoCardless content team comprises a group of subject-matter experts in multiple fields from across GoCardless. The authors and reviewers work in the sales, marketing, legal, and finance departments. All have in-depth knowledge and experience in various aspects of payment scheme technology and the operating rules applicable to each. The team holds expertise in the well-established payment schemes such as UK Direct Debit, the European SEPA scheme, and the US ACH scheme, as well as in schemes operating in Scandinavia, Australia, and New Zealand. See full bio

Last editedFeb 20201 min read

A guide to best practices businesses should follow when billing by invoice.

The purpose of an invoice is to make sure you're paid as quickly as possible. So the perfect invoice is one that allows and encourages your clients to pay you – in full and immediately. You should ensure you include all the information in the “What does an invoice include?” section of this guide. That alone is technically sufficient to class as an invoice.

However, ideally you should go a little further than the basics, and create invoices that really stand out.

Remember, good accounting software will generate e-invoices for you, based on your choice of template. These can include 'pay now' buttons so that your clients can pay your invoice immediately, the moment they receive it.

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