2. How can you expect your customers to take your
business seriously if your invoices do not appear
professional? An invoice is the last impression you give
to your customer. Why not close the deal with an invoice
template that is professional, free, and easy to use?
A professional invoice is critical to your company's
credibility, not only so your customers pay you promptly,
but also so they call you again for future business. If
the customer doubts the credibility of your invoice, they
may not submit a payment by the deadline you
requested, which hurts your bottom-line. The task of
invoicing can be daunting, but it is simplified by using a
template appropriate for your industry. So how do you
find the right template for your business and save money
at the same time?

3. First, you should identify what your template needs. At a
minimum, your invoice should include certain elements, such
as your company's name and address, customer's contact
information, description of services provided, and the
agreed cost for the services you provide. More advanced
invoices may include your company's logo, terms of payment,
and itemization of goods and services provided.
Once you have an idea of what you need, it will be easier to
narrow down the options. Most software packages offer
templates, but the software can be quite expensive.
Templates can be purchased individually online, as well. But
as a small business owner, you know that running a business
is expensive, and you want to cut costs whenever you can.
The Internet is filled with tools to help run your business,
including free invoice templates.

4. An invoice with all of the necessary elements may be easily
created using one of the convenient and free invoice
templates online. Invoice types may include an invoice for a
particular service, labor and materials invoice, proforma
invoice, among others. Free templates are generally
available in a variety of formats you probably already have
on your computer, such as HTML, Microsoft Word,
Microsoft Excel, or PDF. Some free templates include
time-saving features, like self-calculation for easy
figuring, generic logos or options to add your own logo,
automatic date stamping, and easy drop down menus for
selecting items or services to customize your invoice.

5. Lastly, you'll need to consider the production of your
template. Depending on your industry you need to pick the best
invoice to suit your needs. For example, you may use an invoice
template that you customize electronically and print from the
convenience of your office before submitting to your client. Or
perhaps, the invoice will be sent electronically through email.
Or you may require a handwritten invoice form that your
technician can complete in the field. Most likely, your company
will require a combination of these. Using a template can
ensure that your company's design and branding elements are
consistent.

6. Sources:
http://www.fetchflow.com
http://ezinearticles.com/?Free-Invoice-Templates-MadeEasy&id=6701292

7. Sources:
http://www.fetchflow.com
http://ezinearticles.com/?Free-Invoice-Templates-MadeEasy&id=6701292