Yes. You can build an invoice and export it as a PDF, PNG, or Word document for free, with no account. Free invoices carry a small ‘made with invoice·me’ footer. Pro ($20/mo) removes it, adds your own branding, and saves your full invoice history.

What formats can I export?

PDF, PNG, and an editable Microsoft Word (.docx) file — all generated in your browser from the same invoice.

Can I customise tax and currency?

Yes. Add any number of named tax lines (VAT, GST, sales tax) with their own rates, choose tax-inclusive or added-on-top, apply a discount, and pick from 20+ currencies with locale-aware number and date formatting.

Can a receipt be used to claim a tax deduction?

Often yes — a receipt proves you paid for something, which is the evidence tax authorities want for a business expense. For larger or VAT-reclaim purchases, you may also need a proper tax invoice. Keep both where you have them.

Is a paid invoice the same as a receipt?

An invoice marked 'paid' can serve a similar purpose, but a receipt is the cleaner record of payment. The safest practice is to issue a separate receipt or payment confirmation once an invoice is settled.

Do I need to send a receipt after every invoice?

It's good practice but not always legally required. Many businesses simply confirm payment by email. If a client specifically asks for a receipt for their records or expenses, you should provide one.

invoice vs receipt

invoicing basicsJune 12, 2026· 5 min read

An invoice requests payment for goods or services and is issued before the customer pays. A receipt confirms that payment has already been made and is issued after. In short: an invoice asks for money, a receipt acknowledges it was received. Many transactions involve both — first an invoice, then a receipt once the bill is settled.

What an invoice is for

An invoice is a formal request for payment. It sets out what was supplied, how much is owed, and by when. Because it's issued before money changes hands, it acts as the legal basis of the debt the client owes you. Invoices are central to credit terms, where you supply first and get paid later.

What a receipt is for

A receipt is proof that a payment has been made. It's issued after the customer has paid and records the amount, the date and the method of payment. Customers use receipts for their own bookkeeping and for tax or expense claims, while you keep one as evidence the debt was cleared.

When to use each

Use an invoice whenever you're billing for work or goods that will be paid later — the typical freelance or B2B arrangement. Use a receipt to confirm payment, especially where the customer needs evidence for their records. A retail card payment may produce only a receipt; a 30-day supplier arrangement produces both.

Invoice — issued before payment, requests money owed
Receipt — issued after payment, confirms money received
Invoice — establishes the debt and due date
Receipt — proves the debt was settled

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faq

Can a receipt be used to claim a tax deduction?: Often yes — a receipt proves you paid for something, which is the evidence tax authorities want for a business expense. For larger or VAT-reclaim purchases, you may also need a proper tax invoice. Keep both where you have them.
Is a paid invoice the same as a receipt?: An invoice marked 'paid' can serve a similar purpose, but a receipt is the cleaner record of payment. The safest practice is to issue a separate receipt or payment confirmation once an invoice is settled.
Do I need to send a receipt after every invoice?: It's good practice but not always legally required. Many businesses simply confirm payment by email. If a client specifically asks for a receipt for their records or expenses, you should provide one.

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