In short
An invoice format is the layout of a bill you send a customer to ask for payment. It has your business name and address, the customer's name and address, an invoice number and date, a due date, a table of items with quantity, rate and amount, any tax, the total due and how to pay. If you are registered under GST, use the GST invoice format, which adds GSTINs, HSN/SAC codes and the CGST, SGST or IGST split.
Fields to include
- Your business name, address, phone and email
- Invoice number (unique, in a series) and invoice date
- Customer name and billing address
- Due date or payment terms (for example, 15 days)
- Items: description, quantity, rate and amount
- Discount, tax and the total amount due
- How to pay: bank details or a UPI ID
- Notes and terms, and a signature if your customer needs one
When to use it
- Freelancers, consultants and small shops not registered under GST
- Billing a customer after the work is done or the goods are delivered
- Any sale where you want a record of what is owed and by when
How to make one online
Open the free invoice maker
Tap "Make this invoice free". It opens in your browser; no signup.
Fill in the fields
Type your details, your customer's and the items. Totals are worked out for you.
Download or send
Download the PDF to print or share. Sign up free to save it and send it on WhatsApp or email.
Frequently asked questions
What is the simplest invoice format?
Your details, the customer's details, an invoice number and date, a list of items with amounts, the total and how to pay. Everything else is optional unless you are registered under GST.
Is there a free invoice format in Word or Excel?
You don't need one. Receipt Book's online format works like a template but adds up the totals for you, keeps your numbering and downloads a PDF free, without signing up.
Can I send the invoice on WhatsApp?
Yes. Sign up free to send it as a link with a Pay by UPI button. Free accounts get 10 sends a month.
More questions? See the Receipt Book FAQ.
Sources
This page explains the rules in general terms as of November 2026. It is not tax or legal advice; check your case with your CA.
More formats
- GST invoice format Tax invoice with GSTIN, HSN/SAC, place of supply and the CGST, SGST or IGST split. Free, no signup
- Bill format A shop or service bill: items, quantity, rate, total, paid by cash or UPI. Free, no signup
- Quotation format A price quote with validity date, items, GST and terms. Free, no signup
- Proforma invoice format An advance bill before the sale: for advance payment, import or a loan. Free, no signup
- Receipt format Payment receipt with amount, mode, reference and a PAID stamp. Free, no signup
- Credit note format For returns, discounts after sale or overcharging, linked to the original invoice. Free, no signup
- Purchase order format Order goods from a vendor with quantities, rates, delivery date and terms. Free, no signup
- Freelancer invoice format Invoice for freelancers and consultants: services, hours or milestones, UPI or bank details. Free, no signup
- Rent receipt format House or shop rent receipt with tenant, landlord, month, PAN and signature. Free, no signup
- Cash receipt format Cash or money receipt with amount in words, purpose and revenue stamp note. Free, no signup
- Bill of supply format Bill without GST for composition dealers and exempt supplies, with the Rule 5 line. Free, no signup
- Delivery challan format Challan for moving goods without a sale: job work, approval, branch transfer (Rule 55). Free, no signup