Free UK Invoice Generator

Whether you're a sole trader, contractor, or limited company, a UK invoice needs to get a few things right — and VAT is where most people hesitate. Speed Invoices lets you build a compliant-looking invoice in GBP, add VAT only if you actually need to, and download the PDF free — no signup, no watermark, and your data stays in your browser.

What goes on a UK invoice

• Your details — trading name, address, and contact details. Limited companies typically include the registered company name.
• Your VAT number — but only if you're VAT-registered.
• Your customer's details — name and address.
• A unique, sequential invoice number — HMRC expects your numbering to follow a consistent series.
• Dates — the invoice date, and for VAT invoices the tax point (time of supply).
• Line items — description, quantity, and unit price for each item.
• The VAT breakdown — net amount, VAT rate and amount, and the gross total.

Do you charge VAT at all?

Not necessarily. Sole traders and small businesses only charge VAT once they're VAT-registered, and registration is threshold-based — below the threshold it's optional. If you're not registered, your invoice simply shows the amounts with no VAT line and no VAT number.

If you are registered, the standard rate is 20%, with a reduced 5% rate for certain goods and services. A quick worked example for a consultant billing £800 of work at the standard rate:

• Net: £800.00
• VAT (20%): +£160.00
• Total due: £960.00

Building it in Speed Invoices

Set the currency to GBP, pick the date format you prefer (7 to choose from), and add a VAT line at 20% — the totals update automatically. Discounts, custom tax rates for reduced-rate work, rich-text descriptions, and your logo are all built in, and you can choose from several PDF templates before downloading.

The same editor also produces quotes, credit notes, receipts, and purchase orders, so you can keep your paperwork consistent from estimate to final bill.

Invoicing regularly?

The editor and PDF download are free forever. If you bill retainer clients monthly, Pro ($5/mo) adds recurring invoices, scheduled sends, payment reminders, and sending from your own domain.

Working across borders? See our generators for Ireland and Australia for how VAT and GST differ there.

This article is general guidance, not tax or legal advice. Rates and rules change; confirm with a qualified accountant or HMRC.