How to Make an Invoice

Practical guide, updated August 2026

To make an invoice you need: your details and your client's, an invoice number, the date, a breakdown of what you're billing with its price, any applicable taxes, and the total. You can write it by hand on a template or generate it in seconds with a tool like facturaix.

1. Issuer details

Your name or your business name, plus a contact detail (email or address). If you invoice as a freelancer or company, include your tax ID if your activity requires it.

2. Client details

The name of the client or company you're billing, and their email or contact address.

3. Invoice number and date

Every invoice needs a number that identifies it and an issue date. If you'll be sending several invoices, use sequential numbering (e.g. INV-2026-001, INV-2026-002) to keep things organized.

4. Line items: what you're billing and at what price

Detail every service or product you're charging for: name, quantity, and unit price. The clearer each line item, the fewer questions your client will have when paying.

5. Taxes and discounts, if they apply

Depending on your country and type of activity, you may need to add taxes (like VAT) or withholdings to your invoice. Rules vary by jurisdiction, so confirm the rates that apply to you with an accountant before sending it.

6. Total

Add up the subtotal of all line items, apply taxes and discounts, and show the final total clearly.

7. Download it as a PDF and review it

Before sending it, check that the details, quantities, and total are correct. A PDF with selectable text (not a screenshot) looks more professional.

Make it now with facturaix

Describe your work and download your invoice as a PDF in under a minute. Free, no sign-up.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need software to make an invoice?

It's not required, but a generator like facturaix saves you from calculating totals by hand and gives you a professional PDF ready to send in seconds.

Do invoices need to be numbered?

In most countries, sequential invoice numbering is standard practice. The exact rules depend on your country and activity, so check with an accountant if you have doubts.

Can I make an invoice for free?

Yes. With facturaix you can create, edit, and download your invoice as a PDF at no cost and without signing up.