Difference Between an Invoice and a Receipt

There are some terms today that are often used interchangeably. A common example is an invoice and receipt even though they mean entirely different things. While the words themselves might not be new to you, the differences might be. It also doesn’t help much that both are used within the accounting part of a business. As a new entrepreneur, solopreneur, or freelance professional curious about the difference; here is a detailed difference between an invoice and a receipt. 

What is an invoice

An invoice is a legally binding document that outlines a list of items(services or products) purchased and the sum owed by the buyer. This is proof that an order was made and is also a means of requesting payment from a buyer. An invoice is issued by a seller to a buyer listing the following details. 

• Business details (name, address, contact, etc.)
• Client name
• Invoice number
• products /services purchases
• Taxes if applied
• The individual cost of items
• The total amount owed to the seller
• Dates issued and date of supply

What is a receipt

A receipt is a document confirming a client has made payment for a product or service purchased. This is issued after a client has made payment and it contains the following.

• Business details
• Transaction date
• Items purchased and prices
• Transaction total
• Taxes
• Method of payment

The difference

While there are things common with an invoice and a receipt, they both serve and fulfill different purposes. For instance, an invoice is issued before payment is made and a receipt just after payment. The primary purpose of an invoice is to give a client details about what they are to pay for and informing them to make payment. A receipt on the other hand only confirms that a payment has been made. This is vital information for keeping track of company earnings as well as for client records.

How to write invoice and receipt

Now that you know the difference between an invoice and a receipt, how do you write one? There are several ways you can craft a decent invoice and company receipt for consistent usage. The first step in accomplishing any of these is by understanding the information each document requires. The second step is by creating a professional template and sticking to it. Depending on whether you offer a receipt on paper, you might have to print out a template to fill. Although, creating a professional invoice might cost you a few bucks. Alternatively, you can create a professional invoice if you offer invoices and receipts via email. In a few seconds, you can create a professional invoice without any guide. If you would like to create your invoice and receipt from scratch, here is the information you need to include.

What information must be in an invoice

• Company details which include business name, address, phone number, and or email
• Invoice number for validation
• Client name
• Itemized list of product/services offered alongside individual prices
• Date issued and date due
• The total amount owed including Taxes if any

What information must be in a receipt

• Company details
• Date issued
• Client name
• Items purchased and individual prices
• Taxes
• Total amount
• Payment Type

How to issue a receipt and invoice

There are quite a several ways to issue a receipt or invoice. An invoice or receipt can be typed, handwritten, issued on paper, or sent electronically. However, ultimately they revolve around paper and electronic methods.

Electronically

While brick-and-mortar stores are not seeing a decline in sales, e-commerce is still thriving. This means that more businesses and individuals are relying on electronic invoices. With invoice providers, you can send receipts and invoices straight into clients’ email.

Paper

The oldest and still trending way to issue an invoice for brick-and-mortar stores and shoppers who still prefer walk-ins. You can opt to create custom invoices or buy an invoice book that might cost a few bucks or even opt for built-in printers to produce receipts.

Pay Stubs Now: Leaders in financial documentations

There are several documents business owners have to worry about regularly. One of such documents is a pay stub. In most states, providing one is mandatory and can cost quite the sum to make. Typically, businesses have to partner with payroll companies to issue this regularly. However, as a new business looking to save cost, Pay Stubs Now are leaders in providing you this service at highly competitive pricing. Other than pay stubs, the company also offers utility bills, 1099, and a host of other financial documents

FAQ: When should you give an invoice?

When should you give an invoice?

Invoices are typically issued immediately after a client’s order(s) have been fulfilled. For product-based businesses, an invoice accompanies the delivery. With services, however, an invoice is issued after an order has been fulfilled. This is a timesheet of the number of hours worked in hourly jobs.

Does an invoice mean you’ve paid?

An invoice is a document used to request payment from a client. This means that an invoice is issued even before a client has to pay. An invoice does not mean you have been paid.

Can I take legal action if a client refuses to pay an invoice?

An invoice is a legally binding document expressing a deal between two or more people (a business and an individual or two individuals). This document is legally binding, shows proof of purchases, and can be used to take legal action when a client refuses to make a payment. A client can also use an invoice to take legal action in cases where what was itemized was not what was paid for or delivered.