Freelance Writing Invoice Template

Example freelance writing invoice

Here is what a typical freelance writing invoice built with this template looks like. It bills 4 line items, from “Blog article – "10 Tips for Remote Teams"” to “Revision round”, for a subtotal of $860.00 before tax. Swap in your own rates; the amounts recalculate automatically.

Suggested note for the client: Rights: first publication rights transfer on payment. Payment due within 30 days via PayPal or bank transfer.

What to include on a freelance writing invoice

• Article or project titles
• Word count and rate (per word, per article or per hour)
• Publication or client reference, including PO number
• Revision work billed separately if beyond scope
• Rights granted (all rights, first rights, work-for-hire)
• Payment method details

Freelance Writing invoicing tips

• Include article titles and publication dates – editors approve invoices faster when they recognize the work.
• Invoice monthly for ongoing clients, listing every piece delivered.
• Charge a kill fee (25–50%) if a commissioned piece is cancelled after work begins.
• Ask whether the client needs a PO number before you send the invoice.

How to use this template

1. Replace the sample line items with the work you actually did. The example items show typical freelance writing charges and rates – adjust them to your prices.
2. Add your business and client details, set the invoice number and due date, and add tax if you are registered to collect it.
3. Download the PDF and email it to your client. Your edits are saved in this browser, so next month you only need to change the dates and items.

Need to quote the job first? Use the quote generator. Getting paid late? Work out interest with the late fee calculator, or browse all 50 invoice templates.