UK invoice template 2026: what must a business invoice include?
A UK invoice that doesn't include all the required information can cause payment delays and compliance issues. This guide covers exactly what HMRC requires on every invoice, with tips on what to add for professional impact.
Required information on a UK business invoice
- A unique invoice number (must be sequential — no gaps)
- Your name/business name and address
- Your client's name and address
- Date of the invoice
- A description of the goods or services provided
- The amount charged for each item or service
- Total amount due
Additional requirements for VAT invoices
If you are VAT-registered, your invoices must also include: your VAT registration number, the tax point (date of supply), the net amount (before VAT), the VAT rate applied to each line, the VAT amount per line, and the total VAT charged.
How long must you keep invoices?
HMRC requires you to keep business records, including all invoices issued and received, for at least 6 years (5 years for sole traders on Self Assessment). Keep electronic copies in a secure, backed-up location.
Professional tips to get paid faster
- Include your payment terms clearly (e.g., "Payment due within 30 days")
- Add your bank details (sort code and account number or IBAN for international clients)
- Include a late payment clause (UK law allows 8% above base rate for late commercial payments)
- Send invoices the same day you complete the work — don't batch them at month-end
Use our free invoice generator
Creating a professional UK invoice doesn't require expensive software. Our free online invoice generator lets you create invoices with all the required fields — including VAT calculations — in under 2 minutes. No sign-up required, no subscription, no limits.