Quick answer
A tax invoice is an invoice issued by a business registered for VAT, GST or a similar tax, showing the details the tax authority requires: usually your tax number, the tax rate and the tax amount. Business customers need it to claim back the tax they paid. Only registered businesses can issue one.
What a tax invoice usually shows
The exact rules vary by country, but most tax invoices include:
- the words “Tax invoice” or “VAT invoice”, where required
- your business name, address and tax registration number (VAT number, GST number, ABN, TRN and so on)
- a unique, sequential invoice number and the date
- the customer’s name and address, often required above a certain amount
- a description of each item, the quantity and the price
- the tax rate and tax amount for each rate, and the total
Need one now? Open the uk vat invoice. It’s free and makes a PDF in a minute.
Tax invoice vs ordinary invoice
An ordinary invoice asks for payment. A tax invoice does the same, but also proves how much tax was charged, so your customer can reclaim it. If you are not registered for VAT or GST, you must not charge the tax or call your invoice a tax invoice. Send a normal invoice instead.
Rules in different countries
We have country templates that set the right tax and wording:
- UK VAT invoice (20% VAT, VAT number)
- Australian tax invoice (10% GST, ABN)
- Canada (GST/HST number and provincial rates)
Some countries, including Kenya, Mexico and Italy, require tax invoices to be issued through a government e-invoicing system. A PDF invoice is not enough there, so check your tax authority’s rules.
Create your invoice in under a minute, free. Fill in the form, watch the preview and download a PDF. No sign-up, and your data stays on your device.
UK VAT invoiceFrequently asked questions
Can I issue a tax invoice if I am not registered?
No. Only businesses registered for VAT, GST or the local equivalent can charge the tax and issue tax invoices.
Does a tax invoice have to say “tax invoice”?
In some countries, such as Australia, the document must show it is intended as a tax invoice. In the UK it is commonly titled “VAT invoice”. Check your local rules.
What is a tax invoice number?
It is the unique, sequential invoice number. Tax authorities expect every tax invoice to have one, with no reuse.
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