An invoice asks your client to pay. A receipt confirms that they already did. They look alike, but they happen at different moments and do different jobs.
| Invoice | Receipt | |
|---|---|---|
| When | Before payment | After payment |
| Purpose | Requests payment | Proves payment |
| Key dates | Issue date and due date | Date the money was received |
| Shows | Balance due and how to pay | Amount paid and payment method |
| Number | Invoice number, like INV-0042 | Receipt number, often linked to the invoice |
When to send an invoice
Send an invoice when you have delivered work or goods and expect to be paid later. It gives your client a due date and the details they need to pay, and gives you a record for your accounts.
When to send a receipt
Send a receipt when a client pays you, especially if they paid in cash, on the spot, or asked for proof for their own records or expenses.
Turning an invoice into a receipt
On invoice-gen.net you can open a paid invoice, set the status to Paid and enter the amount paid. The PDF gets a Paid stamp and a zero balance. Or use the receipt generator to make a separate receipt.
Questions
Is a paid invoice the same as a receipt?
Often it can serve as one. If you mark an invoice as paid and it shows the amount and date received, many clients accept it as proof of payment. Some businesses still prefer a separate receipt.
Do I need to send both?
Send an invoice to ask for payment. Send a receipt when the client asks for proof, or when they paid on the spot without an invoice.
Can I make a receipt for free?
Yes. Use the free receipt generator, mark it as paid and download the PDF.
Make your invoice now
Free, no sign-up needed. Download the PDF or email it to your client.
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