How to Draw Up an Invoice

Write an invoice and get paid.

You've done the work, now it's time to get paid. Draw up an invoice to bill for services you've performed.

When you're hired to do work but are not an employee of the company, you're considered to be a vendor, consultant, freelancer, contractor, or a 1099 worker. People who perform this type of work include plumbers, writers, editors, lawn care workers, computer programmers, and others who perform a service.

Generally, the employer will not automatically pay for these services. You must draw up an invoice to get paid.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Printer

Instructions

1. Find the contract you signed before you performed the services. Read it thoroughly to familiarize yourself with all of the details again.

2. In a Word file (or other word processing software program), begin typing in a new document in a letter style.

3. Type the date you completed the services. For example:

   December 1, 2009

4. Type your name (if a sole proprietor using your own name for your business) or your business name and contact information. For this example, we'll use a writer (you, who is the freelancer/vendor) who wrote a feature story for a magazine (the employer). For example:

   Mary Smith
   Words by Mary
   1234 Magnolia Avenue
   City, State 55555
   444-555-6666

5. Next, type the name and contact information for the employer or person who hired you. Refer to the contract for this information. For example:

   Lou Grant
   The Minneapolis New News
   55 MTM Lane
   Minneapolis, MN 55555
   555-555-1211

6. Type a Reference line to note what services your invoice refers to. For example:

   Re: Freelance writing assignment -- How Mary Tyler Moore affected young girls entering journalism

7. Address the employer by name. For example:

   Dear Mr. Grant:

8. Next, type a simple line explaining your reason for sending the invoice. For example:

   I am enclosing the Contract for Freelance Writing for the feature article, How Mary Tyler Moore affected young girls entering journalism.

   Generally, when you draw up an invoice, it's customary to enclose the contract for services with the invoice.

9. Input the type of services performed with the amount you are billing or invoicing. Type the terms of the invoice (when payment is due). For example:

   Writing $500.00

   Total $500.00

   - Net 30 -

10. Type in a closing sentence thanking the employer for the work you were hired to perform. For example:

    Thank you for the opportunity to work with you and the Minneapolis New News. I look forward to working with you again soon.

11. Type a closing. For example:

    Sincerely,

    Mary Smith

    Leave several blank lines for space to sign your name.

12. Since you are including a copy of the contract, add the word Enclosure. Include two blank lines then type Enclosure.

Tips & Warnings

• Verify the dollar amount and terms of the contract. Thirty days is standard but it can vary.

• Keep track of invoices. If they're not paid in a timely manner, call to inquire about payment.