Important: Tax laws, rates, registration requirements, and invoicing rules in UK can change and may vary by region and supply type. This page provides general informational content and should not be considered professional tax, accounting, or legal advice. Verify current requirements with HMRC or a qualified professional in the United Kingdom.
Applicable jurisdiction: UK · Last reviewed: September 2026
What a UK invoice typically needs
UK clients and accounts teams expect clear commercial details: who billed whom, what was supplied, a unique invoice number, dates, and a total in GBP when the contract is in pounds. VAT-registered suppliers also need space for a VAT number and a clear VAT breakdown.
This page pre-fills GBP, labels tax ID fields as VAT number (and optional company number), and starts VAT at 20% so you can adjust it — including reduced, zero-rated, or exempt treatment when that applies.
VAT number and company number
If you are VAT-registered, put your VAT number on the “from” side. For B2B work, including the customer’s VAT number (when known) helps their accounts payable team.
Company number (Companies House) is optional on many invoices but useful for limited companies. Leave fields blank if they do not apply — do not invent registration numbers.
VAT and this generator
The standard UK VAT rate on many taxable supplies has commonly been 20%, which is why the tax field defaults there. That is a starting point, not a ruling. Reduced rates, zero-rating, exemption, and reverse charge can apply depending on the supply.
Invoice Creator does not file VAT returns, submit Making Tax Digital data, or decide which rate applies. Change the rate on every invoice to match the advice you already follow.
GBP, numbering, and getting paid
Keep the invoice in GBP when the contract is in pounds. If you agreed another currency, switch the currency dropdown so totals match payment. Use a unique invoice number and put sort code, account number, and any payment reference in the notes.
UK invoice FAQs
Can I create a GBP invoice without signing up?
Yes. This page opens a UK-ready generator in your browser. Set GBP, fill your VAT number if registered, add line items and download a PDF. Nothing is uploaded to our servers.
Do I need a VAT number on every invoice?
If you are VAT-registered and issuing a VAT invoice, you normally show your VAT number. If you are not VAT-registered, leave the field blank and do not charge VAT unless your accountant tells you otherwise.
Should I charge 20% VAT on every invoice?
No. The generator defaults to 20% as a common standard rate, but reduced, zero-rated, exempt, and reverse-charge treatments exist. Change the rate to match your supply, or set it to 0 when VAT does not apply.
Does this submit anything to HMRC?
No. This tool produces a professional PDF for you to send to the client. It does not file VAT returns or Making Tax Digital submissions.
Can sole traders use this generator?
Yes. Freelancers, sole traders, and limited companies can use it. Fill in the legal name and any registration details your clients expect.