Writing Invoice Template New Zealand
A writing invoice bills a client for articles, copywriting or editing, priced by the word, by the piece or by the hour. This template is set up for New Zealand: amounts in NZD, GST at 15% on each line. Change anything you like, then download it as a PDF.
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How to write a writer invoice
- Give each piece its title, so the client can match it to what was published.
- Say whether your price is per word, per piece or per hour.
- Note when rights or ownership transfer to the client.
- Invoice when a piece is approved, not when it is published, unless agreed otherwise.
Not sure what to charge? Work out your minimum rate with the freelance rate calculator, and agree the price first with the quote generator.
What an invoice must include in New Zealand
- Since 1 April 2023 'tax invoices' were replaced by 'taxable supply information' (TSI). It no longer has to be one document or be titled 'tax invoice'.
- Supplies of $200 or less: seller's name or trade name, date of the invoice or supply, description of the goods or services, and the amount paid or payable.
- Over $200 up to $1,000: the above plus the seller's GST number, and either the GST-exclusive amount, GST amount and GST-inclusive amount, or the GST-inclusive amount with a statement that it includes GST.
- Over $1,000: the above plus the buyer's name and at least one identifier (address, phone number, email, trading name, NZBN or website) where the buyer is GST-registered.
Invoice rules in New Zealand at a glance
- Tax
- GST, standard rate 15%. See all rates and the GST calculator
- Tax number
- GST number
- Not registered for tax
- A business that is not GST-registered does not charge GST and should not show a GST amount or a GST number on its invoices.
- Small invoices
- For supplies of $200 or less, only basic information is needed (no GST number or buyer details); TSI must be given to a GST-registered buyer within 28 days of a request for supplies over $200.
- Payment terms
- No statutory default payment period for B2B invoices; the agreed terms apply.
- Late payment
- No statutory late payment interest or fixed compensation for B2B invoices. Interest applies only if agreed; courts can award interest under the Interest on Money Claims Act 2016. The Construction Contracts Act 2002 sets payment claim rules for construction work only.
- Keep records
- At least 7 tax years.
Writing Invoice Template New Zealand: frequently asked questions
How do freelance writers invoice?
List each article or page with its title and word count, your rate per word, piece or hour, and any editing on separate lines. Invoice on approval, or monthly for regular clients.
Should I charge per word or per piece?
Per word suits articles of different lengths; per piece is simpler for regular work. Either way, agree it before you start and show it clearly on the invoice.
Do I have to charge GST on my invoices in New Zealand?
A business that is not GST-registered does not charge GST and should not show a GST amount or a GST number on its invoices.
How long must I keep invoices in New Zealand?
At least 7 tax years.
Can I charge interest on late payments in New Zealand?
No statutory late payment interest or fixed compensation for B2B invoices. Interest applies only if agreed; courts can award interest under the Interest on Money Claims Act 2016. The Construction Contracts Act 2002 sets payment claim rules for construction work only. Work it out with the late payment calculator.
Is this invoice template free?
Yes. Edit the template in your browser and download it as a PDF for free, with no sign-up and no watermark. Nothing you type is uploaded.
Sources
The rules on this page were checked in October 2026 and are general information, not legal or tax advice. Check the official sources or ask an accountant in New Zealand if you are unsure what your invoices must show.
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