How to make an invoice
- Your business details fill in automatically once you have typed them on any TallyBrix document tool.
- Enter who you are billing, the job site and an invoice number. Number invoices in order so nothing goes missing.
- List the work and materials. Include approved change orders as their own lines.
- Apply any discount and sales tax, and enter the deposit or progress payments already received.
- Choose payment terms. The due date is worked out for you. Download the PDF and send it.
How the invoice is calculated
Subtotal = sum of quantity × price
After discount = subtotal × (1 − discount)
Sales tax = after discount × tax rate
Total = after discount + tax; balance due = total − payments received
Due date = invoice date + payment terms in days
Worked example
A $3,500 deck job with a 5% discount, 7% tax and a $1,000 deposit
- Subtotal $3,500; less 5% ($175) = $3,325.
- Sales tax 7% of $3,325 = $232.75, so the total is $3,557.75.
- Less the $1,000 deposit: balance due $2,557.75.
- Dated November 2, 2026 on Net 30, it is due December 2, 2026.
Payment terms at a glance
| Terms | Means | Invoice dated Nov 2 is due |
|---|---|---|
| Due on receipt | Pay now | Nov 2 |
| Net 7 | Within 7 days | Nov 9 |
| Net 15 | Within 15 days | Nov 17 |
| Net 30 | Within 30 days | Dec 2 |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Vague descriptions. "Work done" invites questions. Say what was done and where.
- Forgetting the deposit. Show it as paid so the customer sees the true balance.
- Missing change orders. Bill each approved change as its own line with its number.
- No due date. Clear terms get you paid faster.
Frequently asked questions
What should a contractor invoice include?
Your business name, address, phone and any license number; the customer and job address; an invoice number and date; a description of the work and materials; quantities, prices and the subtotal; any discount and sales tax; payments already received; the balance due; the due date; and how to pay.
What does Net 30 mean?
The full balance is due 30 days after the invoice date. An invoice dated November 2 on Net 30 is due on December 2. Due on receipt means payment is expected straight away.
Is the discount taken before or after sales tax?
Here, before: tax is calculated on the discounted amount, which is how most states treat a discount the customer actually receives. $3,500 less 5% is $3,325, and 7% tax on that is $232.75.
How do I show a deposit on the final invoice?
Enter the deposit and any progress payments in Deposit and payments received. They are listed as Paid to date and subtracted from the total, so the invoice shows only the balance still owed.
Can I make an invoice from my estimate?
Yes. The estimate generator links here with the customer and address filled in. Add the final amounts, including any approved change orders.