You are required to register for and charge GST/HST once your taxable revenues exceed $30,000 in a single calendar quarter or in four consecutive quarters. If you are below this threshold, you are a "small supplier" and are not required to charge GST/HST. However, you can voluntarily register, which allows you to claim input tax credits on your business expenses. Check the CRA website for current thresholds.
For Canadian tax purposes, a valid invoice should include: your business name and address, the date of the invoice, a description of the goods or services, the amount charged, the GST/HST number (if registered) and the tax amount charged separately. For invoices over $150, additional details are required. Consult the CRA's guidelines for invoice requirements.
Net 30 (payment due within 30 days) is the most common for freelance and B2B invoices. For smaller projects or new clients, Net 14 or "due on receipt" reduces your risk. For larger projects, consider milestone billing rather than one final invoice. Always state your payment terms in your contract before starting work, not just on the invoice.
Yes - if your client agreement includes a late payment clause. Common practice is 1.5-2% per month (18-24% annualised). You must specify the late fee in your contract or in your invoice terms before it becomes due. You cannot retroactively add late fees that were not agreed to in advance. Some freelancers offer an early payment discount instead, which is often more effective.
No - this tool runs entirely in your browser and does not save data between sessions. Your invoice will be lost if you close or refresh the tab. Use the Print / Save as PDF button to save a digital copy immediately. For recurring clients, note your last invoice number somewhere so you can continue the sequence next time.
Always. An invoice is a request for payment, not a contract. A contract (even a simple email confirming scope, deliverables, price and payment terms) is what protects you if a client disputes the work or refuses to pay. Send your contract before you start work. Send your invoice when you deliver. The two together give you the clearest legal footing if a dispute arises.