2 min read
Quote vs invoice
Learn the difference between a quote and an invoice, when each becomes binding, and how both fit your sales workflow—with examples.
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Step 2 · Create & send
How to make invoices
Making an invoice well is the practical core of getting paid. A professional bill includes who you are, who you’re billing, a unique number, issue and due dates, itemized work, totals, and payment instructions—written so a busy accounts-payable person can approve it without guessing.
This path also explains the documents around the invoice: quotes and estimates before the work, receipts after payment, credit notes when something needs correcting, purchase orders on the buyer’s side, and specialized forms like commercial or pro forma invoices for international or pre-shipment situations.
Guides in this section
2 min read
Estimate vs quote
Estimate vs quote explained simply. Learn what each means, when to use it, how they lead to an invoice, and which to send first.
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2 min read
Invoice number guide
Learn how to number invoices the right way. Compare numbering systems, see examples, avoid common mistakes, and build a format that scales.
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2 min read
Invoice vs receipt
An invoice asks for payment; a receipt proves it. Learn when to use each, what to include, and how they fit together.
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3 min read
Invoice statuses
Draft, sent, overdue, paid, void—learn what every invoice status means and exactly what to do next at each stage.
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2 min read
Credit notes
Learn what a credit note is, when to issue one, and how it differs from an invoice, refund, and receipt—with examples.
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2 min read
Credit memo vs credit note
Credit memo vs credit note explained: often the same document under two regional names. Learn when to issue one and how it differs from a refund.
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2 min read
Purchase order
What is a purchase order? Learn how POs work, what they include, when you need one, and how they differ from quotes and invoices.
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2 min read
Purchase order vs invoice
The buyer sends the PO to authorize a purchase; the seller sends the invoice to request payment.
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2 min read
Receipt
Learn what a receipt is, when to issue one, what to include, and how it differs from an invoice and a payment confirmation.
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2 min read
Commercial invoice
What a commercial invoice is, when it's required, and fields it must include—so international shipments clear customs without delays.
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2 min read
Pro forma invoice
A pro forma communicates expected costs before payment is due. Learn what it is, when to use one, and how it differs from an invoice.
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