Invoicing explained
Invoice vs Receipt
An invoice requests payment for goods or services; a receipt confirms that payment has been made. The invoice comes first and says “please pay”; the receipt comes after and says “paid in full”.
What is invoice?
An invoice is issued before payment. It itemizes what's owed, sets the amount and due date, and serves as the seller's request for payment and the buyer's record of what they owe (accounts payable).
What is receipt?
A receipt is issued after payment. It confirms the transaction is complete and proves the buyer paid. Receipts are used for refunds, warranties, expense claims, and tax records.
Invoice vs Receipt: the key differences
Here's how invoice and receipt differ at a glance:
- Order — invoice before payment, receipt after.
- Message — invoice says “amount due”; receipt says “paid”.
- Function — invoice requests payment; receipt is proof of payment.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between invoice and receipt?
An invoice requests payment for goods or services; a receipt confirms that payment has been made. The invoice comes first and says “please pay”; the receipt comes after and says “paid in full”.
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