In short
A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill sent before goods are delivered or work is done. It looks like an invoice, with the seller and buyer details, items, rates, tax and total, but it is marked "Proforma Invoice", has a validity date and is not a demand for payment in law. It is not a GST tax invoice, so the buyer cannot claim input tax credit on it; issue a tax invoice when the sale happens.
Fields to include
- The title "Proforma Invoice"
- Seller name, address and GSTIN
- Buyer name and address
- Proforma number, date and valid until date
- Items with quantity, rate and amount, and expected GST
- Total, advance asked for and payment terms
- Delivery terms and bank details
When to use it
- Asking for an advance before you buy material or start work
- Export and import orders, letters of credit and customs
- A buyer's loan, subsidy or internal purchase approval
How to make one online
Open the free proforma invoice maker
Tap "Make this proforma 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
Is a proforma invoice valid for GST?
No. It is not a tax invoice. When you receive an advance for services, issue a receipt voucher; when the sale happens, issue a tax invoice.
Does a proforma invoice need a number?
It is good practice to number it in its own series (for example PRO-001) so it is not confused with your tax invoice series.
Can a proforma invoice become a tax invoice?
No, issue a separate tax invoice in your invoice series once the sale happens. The proforma stays as a record of the offer.
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
- Invoice format The standard invoice layout with every field a customer and your CA expect. Free, no signup
- 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
- 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