A professional invoice is part of getting paid on time
Contractor invoices that look professional and include the right information get paid faster than informal invoices sent by text or email. This guide explains what belongs in a contractor invoice, how to structure payment terms, and how automated invoice chasing gets payments collected without awkward phone calls.
What every contractor invoice must include
A complete contractor invoice includes your company name, address, phone number, and email. It includes the customer name and address. It has a unique invoice number for your records. It lists the date the invoice was issued and the payment due date. It includes a description of the work completed that matches the approved proposal. It shows the total amount due, any deposit paid, and the balance owed. It includes your accepted payment methods and instructions.
How to structure payment terms
Payment terms on a contractor invoice should be clear and specific. Net 30 means payment is due 30 days from the invoice date. Net 15 is more appropriate for smaller jobs. Due upon receipt is appropriate for any invoice under $1,000. For larger jobs, progress payment schedules tied to project milestones reduce the risk of chasing a large final invoice. State your terms clearly on the invoice itself.
Digital invoices get paid faster
Contractor invoices sent digitally with a card payment link are paid faster than paper invoices or invoices that require a check to be mailed. The customer can pay immediately when they receive the invoice, on any device. The payment is processed and confirmed automatically. The convenience of digital payment removes the friction that causes invoice payment to be delayed.
Automated invoice chasing
Chasing unpaid invoices is one of the most uncomfortable parts of running a contracting business. Automated invoice reminders sent at Day 3, Day 7, Day 14, and Day 30 after the invoice is sent handle this professionally without any manual effort. Each reminder is polite, professional, and includes the payment link. Most invoices are paid by the second or third reminder without a phone call.
Professional invoicing with automated payment collection
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