Invoice template for freelance writers.
Invoice by the word, the piece or the retainer, with rights and kill fees in plain sight.
What to include
What goes on freelance writers’ invoices
- The piece, its word count and the agreed rate
- Rights granted, such as first publication or full buyout
- Kill fees or revision fees if they were agreed
- Expenses such as research, travel or transcription
- Payment terms, since publications often pay on a schedule
Wizard Invoice asks for these one question at a time, fills in your logo, colour and payment details on its own, and sends the result by WhatsApp, email, PDF or a link.
IC
Ines Calder
Invoice
No. INV-0017
Billed to
Hana Weiss
Northlight Magazine
DescriptionQtyRateAmount
Feature article, 1,800 words1800$0.45$810.00
Interview transcription1$90.00$90.00
Second round of edits1$150.00$150.00
Subtotal$1,050.00
Total$1,050.00
Notes
First publication rights as agreed. Payment due on publication or in 30 days.
Payment details
Bank transfer details go here, filled in once from your brand.
Thank you for your business.
Get paid sooner
Three habits that help freelance writers get paid.
01
Say what rights you are selling
A line such as "first North American serial rights" prevents confusion if the client later wants to reuse the piece.
02
Agree a kill fee
If a commissioned piece is cancelled, a kill fee covers your time. Put the percentage in the contract and mention it on the invoice if it applies.
03
Chase politely, early
Publications pay on odd schedules. A friendly follow-up a few days before the due date is usually all it takes.
Questions
Common questions.
Other kinds of work
Invoicing for every kind of work.
Your next invoice takes about a minute.
Answer a few questions, hit send, and see who has paid.
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