How to Invoice Agencies and Clients as a Contractor
Stop Chasing Payments—Start Getting Paid What You’re Owed
Contractors in the UK face a relentless struggle: late payments, confusing agency processes, and endless admin. Enough is enough. It’s time to take control of your hard-earned income.
What You Need to Get Started
Before you can send watertight invoices, arm yourself with:
Your business details: Legal name, address, and company number (if limited).
Client’s details: Legal name and billing address.
Your bank information: Account number and sort code.
A unique invoice number: For tracking and compliance.
Dates: Invoice date and due date (typically 14 or 30 days).
Description of services: Be specific—clarity avoids disputes.
VAT details: If VAT-registered, include your VAT number and split out VAT on the invoice.
Step-by-Step: Bulletproof Invoicing for Contractors
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Negotiate Payment Terms Upfront
Never start work without a contract. Insist on clear payment terms—net 14, net 30, or whatever works best for you. -
Create Your Invoice
Use a professional template. Double-check all details. Mistakes mean delays. -
Send to the Right Contact
Agencies and large clients can lose invoices in the abyss. Get the exact email or portal for accounts payable. -
Track Your Invoices
Log every invoice. Set reminders for due dates. Out of sight, out of pocket. -
Chase Late Payments Ruthlessly
If payment is late—even by a day—follow up. UK law allows you to charge statutory interest and late fees. Don’t be shy about enforcing your rights.
Common Pitfalls (And How to Crush Them)
Vague Service Descriptions: Spell out your deliverables. Vague invoices get queried or ignored.
Missing VAT Info: If you’re VAT-registered, include your VAT number and itemise VAT clearly.
Wrong Contact Details: One typo and your invoice vanishes into the void.
Failing to Follow Up: Polite persistence pays. Set automated reminders.
Next Steps: Protect Your Earnings
Automate your invoicing with cloud tools.
Know your legal rights—don’t let agencies fob you off.
Join a trade body for backup if clients delay payments.
Share this article with fellow contractors. Solidarity means strength.
“If you don’t value your work, neither will your clients. Send that invoice—on time, every time.”
Take Back Control
Stop letting big agencies dictate your cash flow. You are the engine of your business. Invoicing isn’t admin—it’s your right as a contractor. Get paid what you deserve, when you deserve it. The tools are here. Use them.
