{"id":29142,"date":"2026-03-17T14:23:48","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T14:23:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/?p=29142"},"modified":"2026-03-31T12:25:48","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T11:25:48","slug":"what-is-an-invoice","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-an-invoice\/","title":{"rendered":"What is an invoice? Definition and examples"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--standard entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--standard\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/category\/money-matters\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Money Matters<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat is an invoice? Definition and examples\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn about invoices, what they look like, what to include, and how you can use them to manage your business finances.\u00a0\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-03-17T14:23:48+00:00\">17 March, 2026<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"What is an invoice? Definition and examples\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-an-invoice\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/author\/laurencematone\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/03\/Profile_LM-350x350.jpeg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"Laurence Matone\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Laurence Matone<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"h-\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An invoice is defined as a formal document issued by a seller to a buyer, requesting payment for goods or services provided.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It details a transaction, including an&nbsp;itemised&nbsp;list, the total amount&nbsp;due&nbsp;and any&nbsp;special terms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This type of record is useful for both parties, helping with financial tracking, accounting, and legal documentation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While the terms \u2018invoice\u2019 and \u2018receipt\u2019 are sometimes confused, they serve different purposes. An invoice requests payment, while a receipt confirms that payment has been made.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While the general invoice definition includes any record of a transaction, the term is usually used&nbsp;in reference to&nbsp;a document with more complexity than a simple receipt.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"h-here-s-nbsp-what-nbsp-we-ll-nbsp-explore-nbsp\"><strong>Here\u2019s&nbsp;what&nbsp;we\u2019ll&nbsp;explore<\/strong>:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-the-purpose-of-an-invoice-nbsp-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">What is the purpose of an invoice?&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-does-an-invoice-look-like-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">What does an invoice look like? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-nbsp-an-nbsp-invoice-date-nbsp-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">What is&nbsp;an&nbsp;invoice date?&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-invoice-vs-bill-nbsp-what-s-nbsp-the-difference-nbsp-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Invoice vs bill:&nbsp;What&rsquo;s&nbsp;the difference?&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-does-an-invoice-differ-from-a-receipt-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">How does an invoice differ from a receipt? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-does-an-invoice-mean-nbsp-you-ve-nbsp-been-paid-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Does an invoice mean&nbsp;you&rsquo;ve&nbsp;been paid? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-invoices-and-accounts-payable-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Invoices and accounts payable &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-to-send-an-invoice-in-8-steps-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">How to send an invoice in 8 steps &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-10-best-practices-and-tips-for-invoicing-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">10 best practices and tips for invoicing &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-invoicing-software-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">What is invoicing software? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-are-the-advantages-of-using-invoicing-software-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">What are the advantages of using invoicing software? &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-set-up-automated-invoicing-for-any-business-nbsp-nbsp\" data-level=\"2\">Set up automated invoicing for any business&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-invoicing-faqs\" data-level=\"2\">Invoicing FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-the-purpose-of-an-invoice-nbsp-nbsp\"><strong>What is the purpose of an invoice?&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An invoice serves several important purposes in business transactions, which may include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Financial reporting:<\/strong>&nbsp;provides detailed data on sales and revenue, which is critical for preparing financial statements and&nbsp;analysing&nbsp;business performance.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Request for payment:<\/strong>&nbsp;the&nbsp;primary purpose of an invoice is to request payment for goods or services provided. It informs the buyer of the amount due, the due date, and the method of payment.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Record&nbsp;keeping:<\/strong>&nbsp;provides a detailed record of the transaction for both the buyer and the seller. This helps in tracking sales, managing inventory, and monitoring cash flow.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Legal documentation:&nbsp;<\/strong>serves as a legal document that can be used to provide evidence and enforce payment in case of disputes.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tax&nbsp;purposes:&nbsp;<\/strong>helps businesses document revenue and expenses, which is necessary for calculating taxes owed, and serves as proof of transactions for tax audits.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-does-an-invoice-look-like-nbsp\"><strong>What does an invoice look like?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If&nbsp;you\u2019re&nbsp;VAT registered in the UK, invoices must meet HMRC requirements, including showing your VAT registration number, the VAT rate charged, the amount of VAT payable, and a clear breakdown of net and gross totals&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s&nbsp;take a closer look at exactly what is on&nbsp;an&nbsp;invoice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Invoice number:<\/strong>&nbsp;a unique identifier to help with tracking and reference.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Date:<\/strong>&nbsp;the date when the invoice is issued.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Seller information:<\/strong>&nbsp;the name, address, and contact details of the seller&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Seller VAT registration number<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Buyer information:<\/strong>&nbsp;the name, address, and contact details of the buyer.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>List of goods or services:&nbsp;<\/strong>detailed information about the items or services provided, including quantities and unit prices.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Total amount due:&nbsp;<\/strong>the sum of all charges, including any applicable taxes and discounts.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Payment terms:<\/strong>&nbsp;details about when and how the payment should be made, including the due date and accepted payment methods.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tax information:&nbsp;<\/strong>any applicable taxes (VAT) and their amounts.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Invoice footer:&nbsp;<\/strong>additional&nbsp;notes, terms and conditions, or payment instructions.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-nbsp-an-nbsp-invoice-date-nbsp-nbsp\"><strong>What is&nbsp;an&nbsp;invoice date?&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The invoice date indicates when the invoice was issued or created by the seller.&nbsp;For VAT purposes in the UK, the invoice date may also&nbsp;establish&nbsp;the tax point, which&nbsp;determines&nbsp;when VAT must be reported to HMRC.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is important because it serves as the official record of the transaction in both parties&#8217; accounting systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having the invoice date listed may also be relevant for tax purposes, as it can&nbsp;determine&nbsp;the period in which VAT is accounted for and help document a clear timeline of when the transaction occurred.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ultimately, the&nbsp;invoice date plays a crucial role in financial and operational processes,&nbsp;impacting&nbsp;payment schedules, accounting records, and legal compliance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-invoice-vs-bill-nbsp-what-s-nbsp-the-difference-nbsp-nbsp\"><strong>Invoice vs bill:&nbsp;What\u2019s&nbsp;the difference?&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The terms \u201cinvoice\u201d and \u201cbill\u201d are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>An invoice<\/strong>&nbsp;is a formal document used primarily in business-to-business (B2B) transactions, detailing&nbsp;important information&nbsp;about the goods or services provided, including payment terms.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>A bill<\/strong>&nbsp;is a more straightforward and informal request for payment.&nbsp;It\u2019s&nbsp;often used in more business-to-consumer (B2C) contexts such as utility bills, a bill at a&nbsp;restaurant&nbsp;or a phone bill.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding the differences between these two terms can help in better managing and processing financial transactions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-does-an-invoice-differ-from-a-receipt-nbsp\"><strong>How does an invoice differ from a receipt?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An invoice requests payment for goods or services and is issued before payment is made.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A receipt, on the other hand, confirms that payment has been received and is issued after the transaction is completed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learn more about the differences between these two in&nbsp;our&nbsp;invoice vs. receipt article.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-does-an-invoice-mean-nbsp-you-ve-nbsp-been-paid-nbsp\"><strong>Does an invoice mean&nbsp;you\u2019ve&nbsp;been paid?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An invoice&nbsp;doesn\u2019t&nbsp;mean&nbsp;you\u2019ve&nbsp;been paid.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An invoice is a payment request issued by a seller to a buyer detailing the amount owed for goods or services provided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In some cases, a&nbsp;pro forma invoice&nbsp;may be issued as a preliminary estimate for goods and services and is usually followed by a final invoice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Payment is typically made after the invoice is received.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-invoices-and-accounts-payable-nbsp\"><strong>Invoices and accounts payable<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Invoices document product sales for inventory, accounting, and tax purposes, aiding in managing&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/accounting-software\/accounts-payable\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">accounts payable<\/a>&nbsp;and related obligations.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When companies ship products before payment, the amount owed is recorded as an&nbsp;accounts&nbsp;payable by the buyer and&nbsp;a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-accounts-receivable\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">accounts receivable<\/a>&nbsp;by the seller.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Today, invoices are normally sent electronically rather than on paper.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an invoice goes missing, the buyer can request a duplicate from the seller.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The issuance of an invoice&nbsp;indicates&nbsp;that credit has been extended, as the seller has delivered a product or service without immediate payment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-send-an-invoice-in-8-steps-nbsp\"><strong>How to send an invoice in 8 steps<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Follow these steps to send an invoice effectively:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Follow up:<\/strong>&nbsp;if payment&nbsp;isn\u2019t&nbsp;received by the due date, follow up with a polite reminder.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Create the invoice:<\/strong>&nbsp;use invoicing software or an invoice template to generate the invoice, including details such as your business name, contact information, invoice number, date, payment terms, and a detailed list of goods or services provided.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Review for accuracy:<\/strong>&nbsp;double-check all the information for accuracy, ensuring the amounts, descriptions, and payment details are correct.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Choose the delivery method:<\/strong>&nbsp;decide whether to send the invoice via email, post, or through an invoicing platform.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Attach or embed the invoice:&nbsp;<\/strong>if sending by email, attach the invoice as a PDF or include it within the email body to ensure&nbsp;it\u2019s&nbsp;easily accessible to the recipient.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"6\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Include a clear subject line:<\/strong>&nbsp;if emailing, use a clear subject line such as \u201cInvoice #1234 \u2013 [Your Company Name]\u201d so the recipient knows exactly what the email is about.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"7\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Add a friendly message:<\/strong>&nbsp;include a brief, polite message in the email, reminding the recipient of the payment&nbsp;terms&nbsp;and thanking them for their business.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"8\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Send the invoice:<\/strong>&nbsp;once everything is in order, send the invoice to the recipient.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-10-best-practices-and-tips-for-invoicing-nbsp\"><strong>10 best practices and tips for invoicing<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To streamline the invoicing process and ensure&nbsp;timely&nbsp;payments, consider these best practices and tips.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Include contact information:<\/strong>&nbsp;provide a clear point of contact for any invoice-related questions or issues.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Use clear and consistent formats:<\/strong>&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;a&nbsp;standardised&nbsp;format for all invoices to ensure clarity and professionalism.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Include all essential details:<\/strong>&nbsp;make sure each invoice includes your business name, contact information, invoice number, date, payment terms, and a detailed breakdown of products or services provided.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Set clear payment terms:<\/strong>&nbsp;specify payment due dates and accepted payment methods to avoid confusion and delays.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Send invoices promptly:<\/strong>&nbsp;issue invoices as soon as possible after delivering goods or services to speed up the payment process.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Follow up on outstanding invoices:<\/strong>&nbsp;implement a system for tracking overdue invoices and send polite reminders if payment is not received by the due date.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Offer multiple payment options:<\/strong>&nbsp;provide various payment methods to make it easier for clients to pay.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Keep records:<\/strong>&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;thorough records of all invoices sent and payments received for&nbsp;accurate&nbsp;financial tracking and reporting.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Automate where possible:<\/strong>&nbsp;utilise&nbsp;invoicing software to automate the invoicing process, reducing errors and saving time.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ensure accuracy:<\/strong>&nbsp;double-check all invoice details to prevent errors that could delay payment.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-invoicing-software-nbsp\"><strong>What is invoicing software?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/accounting-software\/invoicing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Invoicing software<\/a>&nbsp;is&nbsp;designed to automate and simplify the creation, management, and tracking of invoices.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It helps businesses generate professional invoices, manage payment terms, send reminders, and track payments, often integrating with other financial systems to streamline accounting processes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-advantages-of-using-invoicing-software-nbsp\"><strong>What are the advantages of using invoicing software?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Automated reminders:<\/strong>&nbsp;sends automatic payment reminders to reduce&nbsp;late payments&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Efficiency:&nbsp;<\/strong>automates invoice creation, reducing manual entry and saving time.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accuracy:<\/strong>&nbsp;minimises&nbsp;errors with automated calculations and consistent formatting.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Professionalism:&nbsp;<\/strong>provides&nbsp;customisable&nbsp;templates for a polished, professional appearance.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tracking:<\/strong>&nbsp;offers&nbsp;real-time tracking of invoice status, payments, and overdue reminders.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Integration:&nbsp;<\/strong>Easily integrates with accounting systems and payment processors for seamless&nbsp;financial management.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accessibility:<\/strong>&nbsp;enables access to invoices and payment information from anywhere via cloud-based solutions.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Record&nbsp;keeping:<\/strong>&nbsp;maintains&nbsp;organised&nbsp;records of all transactions for better financial oversight and compliance.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-set-up-automated-invoicing-for-any-business-nbsp-nbsp\"><strong>Set up automated invoicing for any business&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Invoices are essential for B2B transactions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They support financial reporting and operations, provide a valuable record of a transaction, and help with client communication.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When it comes to managing invoices efficiently, Sage invoicing software is a valuable tool.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It simplifies the invoicing process through effortless invoice creation, tracking, and management automation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With features that cater to various invoicing needs, such as recurring billing and interim invoicing, Sage AI helps streamline operations and&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;accurate&nbsp;financial records.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If&nbsp;you\u2019re&nbsp;looking to&nbsp;optimise&nbsp;your current invoicing procedure or set up a new one, Sage can support your business by ensuring&nbsp;timely&nbsp;payments with&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/get-paid-faster\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">automated invoice processing<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">New to invoicing?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"h-\">Our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/invoice-cheat-sheet\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">how to create an invoice<\/a>&nbsp;article and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/professional-invoice-templates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">invoice templates<\/a>&nbsp;can get you moving in the right direction.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-invoicing-faqs-nbsp\">Invoicing <strong>FAQs<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773757266909\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What is\u00a0an\u00a0invoice number?\u00a0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">An invoice number, also known as an invoice ID, is a unique code assigned to a specific invoice to distinguish it from other invoices.\u00a0\u00a0<br\/>It helps track and reference the invoice throughout the payment process and in accounting records.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773757286610\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What is\u00a0an e-invoice?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">An\u00a0e-invoice\u00a0is an invoice\u00a0that\u2019s\u00a0created, sent, and received electronically. In some contexts, particularly in the public sector, e-invoices may use structured digital formats to enable automated processing.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773757307046\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How many digits is an invoice number?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Invoice numbers usually range from five to 15 digits, depending on the company\u2019s system, and must be unique to track transactions accurately.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773757327906\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>When should an invoice be sent?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">An invoice should be sent promptly after the delivery of goods or completion of services to ensure\u00a0timely\u00a0payment and effective cash flow management.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773757347146\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What should be done if an invoice is not paid on time?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The sender should follow up with a polite reminder, review the payment terms, and consider implementing a system for handling overdue invoices to ensure\u00a0timely\u00a0collections.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to the Sage Advice newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Join more than 500,000 UK readers and get the best business admin strategies and tactics, as well as actionable advice to help your company thrive, in your inbox every month.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-b1a63862-3fa0-4a5e-bb67-c76b88bbc6b8\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/bookkeeping\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBookkeeping\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/business-finances\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness finances\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/cash-flow\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCash flow\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/cloud\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCloud technology\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/financial-education\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFinancial education\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/payments\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPayments\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-10470 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-bookkeeping tag-business-finances tag-mtd-business tag-need-to-know business_type-small-business card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-857939374_updated-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-857939374_updated-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-857939374_updated-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-857939374_updated-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-07-29T15:57:22+01:00\">29 July, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">14 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/self-assessment-ending-making-tax-digital-sole-traders\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSelf Assessment and Making Tax Digital: What MTD for Income Tax means for sole traders\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tGet the lowdown on how Making Tax Digital changes the way sole traders submit tax returns, and what that means for Self Assessment.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-10471 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-business-finances tag-mtd-business tag-need-to-know tag-tax business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/self-assessment-making-tax-digital-income-tax-landlords\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/04\/GettyImages-996893540-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/04\/GettyImages-996893540-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/04\/GettyImages-996893540-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2021\/04\/GettyImages-996893540-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-07-29T12:17:25+01:00\">29 July, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">14 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tSelf Assessment and Making Tax Digital: What MTD for Income Tax means for landlords\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-31395 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-bookkeeping tag-mtd-business tag-making-tax-digital-for-income-tax business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/mtd-quarterly-updates-supercharge-your-business\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/07\/mtd-tricks-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"A small business person working on MTD\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/07\/mtd-tricks-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/07\/mtd-tricks-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/07\/mtd-tricks-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-07-21T13:46:52+01:00\">21 July, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">9 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tHow MTD quarterly updates can supercharge your business. Yes, really.\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-30564 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-business-costs tag-business-finances tag-business-performance tag-making-tax-digital-for-income-tax business_type-small-business business_type-accountants industry-construction\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/private-landlords-2026-need-to-know-changes\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/landlord-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"A landlord outside some properties he owns\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/landlord-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/landlord-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/landlord-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-25T11:09:14+01:00\">25 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">10 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tNew legal requirements for private landlords in 2026 and beyond\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-30483 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-free-guides-templates category-people-leadership category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-business-performance tag-business-support tag-create-business-plan tag-grow-business tag-make-receive-payments tag-mtd-accountants tag-making-tax-digital-for-income-tax tag-payments tag-performance-management business_type-small-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/the-hidden-hours-behind-late-payments\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-607477465-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-607477465-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-607477465-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-607477465-1214x810.jpg 1214w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"card-post__meta-icon svg-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M11.988 2.989a.75.75 0 0 0-.739.761v10.689l-1.72-1.72a.75.75 0 0 0-.957-.099.75.75 0 0 0-.315.776c.031.146.104.28.211.384l3 3a.75.75 0 0 0 1.06 0l3-3a.76.76 0 0 0 .231-.533.74.74 0 0 0-.22-.538q-.108-.106-.247-.164c-.139-.058-.191-.057-.291-.056s-.198.022-.29.061-.174.097-.243.169l-1.72 1.72V3.75a.76.76 0 0 0-.22-.541.76.76 0 0 0-.542-.22zM5.75 8.5C4.24 8.5 3 9.74 3 11.25v7C3 19.76 4.24 21 5.75 21h12.5c1.51 0 2.75-1.24 2.75-2.75v-7c0-1.51-1.24-2.75-2.75-2.75h-3a.76.76 0 0 0-.537.216.74.74 0 0 0-.223.535.76.76 0 0 0 .223.535.74.74 0 0 0 .537.216h3c.699 0 1.25.551 1.25 1.25v7a1.24 1.24 0 0 1-1.25 1.25H5.75a1.24 1.24 0 0 1-1.25-1.25v-7c0-.699.551-1.25 1.25-1.25h3a.76.76 0 0 0 .537-.216.74.74 0 0 0 .223-.535.76.76 0 0 0-.223-.535.75.75 0 0 0-.537-.216z\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-19T11:24:18+01:00\">19 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tThe hidden hours behind late payments\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn about invoices, what they look like, what to include, and how you can use them to manage your business finances.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1911,"featured_media":16282,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sage_video":false,"post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[23,135,24,51,127,311],"business_type":[4],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[71,73,74,75],"imagine_tag":[289,287,77,109,298],"coauthors":[752],"class_list":["post-29142","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-money-matters","tag-bookkeeping","tag-business-finances","tag-cash-flow","tag-cloud","tag-financial-education","tag-payments","business_type-small-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-gb","author_name":"Laurence 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