What usually goes on a UK sole trader invoice
Show your trading or personal name, a contact address, email or phone, a unique invoice number, issue date, due date, client details, itemized work, total due, and how to pay (sort code / account or payment link). Put payment terms in Terms so the due date is not a surprise.
If you are VAT-registered, add your VAT number and a VAT breakdown. For a general tax-line overview see VAT on invoices. Construction subcontractors may also need CIS-friendly layouts.
Sole trader vs limited company
Invoicing as a limited company usually means the registered company name and company number on the document. If that is you, use the limited company UK guide instead of a sole trader generator.
Build one in GBP
Open the UK sole trader generator or browse the UK hub. Fill From/To, add line items, set Taxes only if registered, paste payment terms, then download PDF. Same-day billing habits from freelancer invoicing still apply.
- Never reuse an invoice number
- Match bank details to the name on the invoice
- Keep PDF copies with your bookkeeping records
Disclaimer
General guidance for client PDFs only — not tax, legal, or accounting advice. Confirm Self Assessment, VAT, and CIS rules with HMRC or a qualified adviser.