We all want to get paid by customers on time. So why is it
that so many businesses don’t take the time to create customized invoices? If
you send a bill out that doesn’t have your company contact information, company
logo or even payment options, how is it you expect to quickly receive payment?
We all lead busy lives, including your customers. So, the
easier you can make it for them by providing multiple methods to contact you
with questions or multiple payment options, the quicker you will likely receive
payment. If you use QuickBooks, it even gives you the option to create multiple
customized invoices and name them so that you don’t have to recreate the wheel
each time. If you’re not using QuickBooks, the system you do use likely has
this option. If not, you can always use programs like Word to create a nice,
easy-to-understand invoice.
So, what should be included on an invoice? Here’s our guide
for the minimum information that should be included:
- Your company logo
- Your business name, address, phone, email and website
- Name, address and phone of company receiving the invoice
- Invoice number
- Date invoice sent
- Date invoice due / payment terms (i.e. Net 30 days)
- Description of the goods (be specific about quantity, type, etc.)
- Balance due
- Payment instructions (If credit card is an option, provide space for the customer to write in credit card information and mail or fax to you.)
- Don’t forget to include
the word ‘invoice’ or ‘bill’ so there is no question
If you take the time to customize your invoices, you should
reap the benefits of quicker payments.
