When to send an invoice
Send an invoice when work is complete or a milestone is due and you are requesting payment. It should show what was delivered, the amount due, payment terms, and how to pay.
- Issue after delivery or milestone
- Show amount due and due date
- Include payment instructions
When to send a receipt
Send a receipt after payment is received. It confirms the amount paid, payment date, method, and any remaining balance. Many freelancers send a receipt the same day funds clear.
- Issue after payment posts
- Show amount paid and payment date
- Note any remaining balance
What each document should include
Both documents should share core details: seller and buyer names, document number, line items, and currency. An invoice emphasizes amount due and due date. A receipt emphasizes amount paid and payment date.
- Shared: seller, buyer, line items, currency
- Invoice focus: balance due
- Receipt focus: payment confirmation
Try it with our free tools
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Invoice Generator · Receipt Generator · Paid invoice template
Requirements vary by country and business type. This guide explains common billing workflows and is not tax, legal, or accounting advice.