Gather the Required Information
Before you start filling out the invoice, make sure you have all the necessary information. Here’s what you need:
- Your business name and contact information (address, phone number, email, etc.)
- The customer’s name and contact details
- Date of the transaction
- A unique invoice number
- Description of the goods/services provided
- The quantity and price of each item or service
- Any applicable discounts or taxes
- Terms of payment (due date, accepted payment methods, etc.)
Design a Professional Template
You can create your own invoice template or download a pre-designed one online. Make sure your template reflects your brand and includes all the necessary fields. This will give your handwritten invoice a polished and professional appearance.
Start with Your Business Information
Begin filling out the invoice by writing your business name and contact details at the top. This will help the customer identify where the invoice is coming from.
Add the Customer’s Information
Below your business details, write down the customer’s name, address, phone number, and any other relevant information. Ensuring that the customer’s information is accurate will minimize any confusion or delays in payment.
Include the Date and Invoice Number
On the right-hand side of the template, write down the date of the transaction and assign a unique invoice number. This will keep your invoices organized and provide a reference for both you and the customer.
Describe the Goods/Services Provided
In a clear and concise manner, describe the goods or services you provided to the customer. Include relevant details such as item names, quantities, and any applicable serial or reference numbers.
Specify the Price, Quantity, and Total Amount
In a separate column, list each item or service, its corresponding quantity, and the price. Multiply the quantity by the price to calculate the total amount for each line item. Sum up all the line items to obtain the subtotal.
Add Discounts or Taxes, if Applicable
If there are any discounts or taxes that apply to the transaction, clearly state them on the invoice. This ensures transparency and helps your customer understand the final amount they owe.
Include Payment Terms
Specify the payment terms, such as the due date and accepted payment methods. This information should be easily visible on the invoice to avoid any confusion or delays in payment.
Review and Provide Additional Notes
Before finalizing the invoice, take a moment to review all the information you have provided. Check for any errors or omissions that could potentially cause issues later. If necessary, add any additional notes or terms that may be relevant to the transaction.
Provide a Duplicate Copy
Once you have filled out the invoice, make a copy for your records. This copy will serve as proof of the transaction and will help you with bookkeeping and tracking payments. Ensure both you and the customer have a copy for reference.
Filling out a handwritten invoice may seem daunting at first, but following this step-by-step guide will make the process a breeze. Gathering all the necessary information, designing a professional template, and including all the relevant details will ensure smooth transactions and organized bookkeeping. Handwritten invoices can still be an effective and personal way to handle business, especially in certain situations.
Remember that while handwritten invoices are convenient, it’s a good practice to digitalize your invoices and store them securely either physically or digitally. Keeping electronic records helps streamline your accounting process and ensures easy access to past transactions.
So, why not give handwritten invoices a try for your business? Start implementing this traditional yet effective method and experience the simplicity and convenience it brings.