Updated
What to include on an invoice: a simple checklist
Short answer: A good invoice shows who is selling, who is buying, a unique number, the date, each item with quantity and rate, tax and discount, the total, and how and when to pay.
The checklist
- Your details: business name, address, phone, and PAN or VAT number if you have one.
- Customer details: name, and address or PAN if they are a business.
- A unique invoice number: never reuse one. Simple running numbers such as INV-0001 work.
- Dates: the issue date and the due date. In Nepal, showing the BS date next to the AD date helps customers.
- Line items: a clear description, quantity and rate for each.
- Totals: subtotal, discount, tax (such as VAT) and the final amount in rupees.
- Payment details: bank account, eSewa, Khalti or FonePay, and any terms such as "pay within 15 days".
Tax rules differ by business. If you are VAT-registered, confirm the exact required format with your accountant or the Inland Revenue Department.
Common mistakes
- No due date, so the customer pays whenever.
- Vague lines such as "goods" or "work done".
- Repeated invoice numbers, which confuse your own records.
Need one now? Make a free invoice, receipt or bill →
Questions
Does an invoice need a PAN number?
If your business has a PAN or VAT number, show it. Whether it is required depends on your registration, so ask your accountant.
What payment terms should I write?
Say the due date or the number of days, for example "Pay within 15 days", and list how the customer can pay.
Can I email the invoice?
Yes. The free BillSil generator emails the invoice with a PDF attached.