If you run any type of retail or service business, you probably need to provide customers with documentation of the product or service provided. Traditionally, this has been accomplished via receipts. Today, even if you use online accounting software or computer-based programs for bookkeeping, it might be helpful to have a receipt book in case of a power outage, or for trade shows and other offsite work.

How to Make a Receipt Book

Have you ever wondered how to make your own receipt book? To make a receipt book, you will need a template for your receipt, which can be generated in many word processing programs, via a design site like Canva or downloaded from the internet. If you would like something highly specific to your particular company and its services, you may even wish to create your own template in Excel or using tables in your word processing program.

Include a column for the date, the item purchased or service provided and the total purchase cost. You will also likely wish to have a space for calculating sales tax and incorporating discounts given to the customer. At the top of each receipt, include room for customer information, including name and/or business name, and contact information, like phone number, email address or physical address.

Receipts should be progressively numbered to make it easier for you to track your sales. If you wish, you can add numbers automatically before assembling your receipt book, so that you do not need to revisit this later on. A page numbering function, available in most word processing programs, can take care of this for you. For ease of use, be sure the receipt numbers match up to the numbering system you use in your bookkeeping software.

Assembling Your Receipt Book

If you have ever wondered, _“_How do I make a handwritten receipt?” in a moment of panic because the power is out, your point-of-sale system is down or you are away from your storefront at a trade show or craft fair, fear not. It is easy to assemble a receipt book, once you have created a template. It is probably best to create this template on the computer, if possible, to keep things neat and so that you can easily replicate your receipt pages when needed.

Once you have your template, print as many copies of the page as you would like available to turn into receipts. If they are not trimmed to the size you would like, you should then use a paper cutter to remove excess paper around the edges.

Next, you may want to fasten your receipt templates together. Carefully stack your receipt pages so that all edges line up. You can use a variety of techniques to do this, depending on your preference and resources. Staples, glue, hole punches with a string or coil fastener, and paper clips are some of the options available.

Using a Receipt Book

When you have an urgent need for a paper receipt book, you will have one handy, thanks to your template and assembly work. Be sure to keep the receipt book near your cash register or checkout location at all times so you are prepared in the event of a power outage. If you operate a service business, take your receipt book with you on sales calls so that you are ready to write a receipt whenever necessary.

Sometimes, a receipt book may be easier than trying to print from your mobile printer when attending a trade show or craft fair. Customers might want a receipt for tax purposes, and it is ideal if you can provide one quickly to keep lines moving and offer the best possible service.