What to put on a tradie invoice
A clear invoice gets paid faster and saves back-and-forth with the customer. This template is set up for the way trade jobs are usually billed.
| Line | How to enter it |
|---|---|
| Labour | Hours in Qty, your hourly rate in Unit $. Or one line with a fixed price for the job. |
| Materials | One line per item or group (cable, fittings, timber), so the customer can see what they paid for. |
| Call-out fee | Its own line, so it doesn't look hidden inside the labour. |
| Job address or job number | In the Reference field. It helps both of you match the payment to the job. |
| Licence number | In "Licence / registration no." under your business details. |
| Deposit already paid | In "Amount already paid". The invoice then shows the balance due. |
If you're registered for GST, the invoice is titled "Tax invoice" and shows the 10% GST, and the checklist beside the preview confirms you've included everything the ATO requires. Sales of $1,000 or more also need the customer's name or ABN.
Invoice on site, from your phone
The generator works in your phone's browser. Tick "Remember my details" once, and next time your business name, ABN, licence number, bank details and logo are already filled in. The next invoice number fills itself in too. Press "Save as PDF / Print", then share the PDF by email or text before you leave the job.
Questions people ask
Should I list labour and materials separately on an invoice?
It isn't required, but it's clearer for the customer and helps avoid disputes. GST applies to labour and materials at the same 10% rate, so splitting them doesn't change the total.
Do I need my licence number on my invoices?
Rules differ between states and trades. Many tradies show it on all their paperwork anyway. Add it in the "Licence / registration no." field, and check your state licensing body for what's required.
How do I show a deposit the customer already paid?
Enter it in "Amount already paid". The invoice then shows the total, the amount paid and the balance due.
Can I make a tradie invoice on my phone?
Yes. The generator runs in your phone's browser. Save the invoice as a PDF and send it straight from your phone.
What payment terms do tradies usually use?
Many use 7 days or payment on completion for domestic jobs, and longer terms for builders and commercial clients. Pick "Due on receipt", 7, 14 or 30 days and the due date is worked out for you.
Sources and limits
- ATO: Tax invoices
- ATO: Registering for GST
- ABN Lookup to confirm an ABN is active
The ABN check only confirms the number is in a valid format. This tool uses the standard 10% GST rate and is general information, not tax or legal advice.