Many of us working in the theatre industry do so as freelancers, meaning that we often get paid upon receipt of an invoice. If you’ve never put one together before, it might initially be confusing. In this post, I’ll outline the core elements of one and include a list of templates from across the internet to help you get started.
1.How much should I be charging/asking for?
Pay and rates may seem like daunting subjects to be broaching but negotiation is always possible. To get an idea of recommended industry rates, see the Independent Theatre Council’s (ITC) guidance here.
2.The invoicing checklist (see HMRC guidelines here)
☑ An invoice number
- Each individual invoice you send should have its own unique number. This is useful for both you and the other party to track, organise, and properly fulfil each invoice.
☑ Your full name and/or Your company name
☑ You/Your company’s address and contact information
- This allows for you to be contacted regarding payments or if any additional information is needed.
☑ The name of the person/company you’re invoicing
☑ The address and contact information of this company/person
☑ Usually in a table:
- A description of what you’re charging for
- The date the service/item was supplied
- The quantity (if applicable)
- The price (amount being charged)
- The total amount owed
☑ Date invoiced (the date you send it to the other party)
☑ A pay-by date
- Usually one month after the date invoiced
- Follow up if you have not been paid by this date!
☑ Your bank account information/Other payment details
- NOTE: Do not share sensitive information such as any passwords, PINs, CVVs, etc.
- Include
- Account holder’s name
- Name of bank
- For domestic transfers: Sort code, Account number
- For international transfers: IBAN, BIC
3.Formatting
Because an invoice is an official financial document, ensure that all information provided is true to your knowledge. This also means that it should be legible and free from clutter. Always remember to keep records of your invoices for future reference. Below is a list of templates available online.
https://create.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/invoices
https://www.adobe.com/uk/express/templates/invoice/freelance
Thank you for reading and we hope this was helpful!