When it comes to painting, your work speaks for itself. But for payments, your invoice needs to do the talking.
A painting invoice is a detailed bill that lists all the services you’ve provided and materials you’ve used for a painting job. It’s not just a simple receipt. It’s a professional document that shows your clients exactly what they’re paying for.
Learn why painting invoices are important, what information to include, and how to create one that looks as professional as your paint job. Discover some tips to make sure you get paid on time and keep your business running smoothly.
Learning how to write a painting invoice is key to running a successful business and getting paid in a timely manner. Think of it as a detailed map of the work you’ve done.
Here’s what to include:
Creating and managing painting contractor invoices doesn’t have to be a pain. Here are some tips to make the process smoother and help you get paid faster:
Think of an invoice management system as your personal assistant for paperwork. Painting invoice software keeps all your invoices organized and easy to find. With a good system, you can quickly create invoices, track painting invoice payments, and even send reminders to late clients.
Many systems—like Joist—let you access your invoices from your phone or tablet. That means you can create or send an invoice right after finishing a job, saving time for both you and the client.
A solid estimate is like a blueprint for your invoice. When you take the time to create detailed painting quotes, it’s easier to turn them into invoices later. Include all the costs you can think of, including paint, supplies, overhead, and a little extra for unexpected issues that may come up.
Your clients will appreciate knowing what to expect. A clear estimate can help avoid surprises when it’s time to invoice, making it more likely you’ll get paid without any hassle.
The easier it is for clients to pay, the faster you’ll get your money. Offer several payment options like checks, credit cards, and online payments. Some painters use mobile payment systems that let clients pay on-site using their phones.
Putting clear payment instructions on your invoice can make a big difference. Tell clients exactly how they can pay you and when the payment is due. The clearer you are, the less likely you are to run into delays or misunderstandings.
Getting paid on time is crucial for keeping your painting business running. Here are some strategies to help make sure your cash flows as smoothly as your paint:
Asking for a deposit before you start painting shows you the client is serious about the job. And it gives you some upfront cash to cover initial expenses.
Be sure to mention the deposit in your initial estimate and deduct it from the final painting invoice. Types of painting that are more involved typically call for higher initial deposits than simpler ones.
Your payment terms are like the rules of the game. They tell your client when and how to pay. Common examples of terms are “Due on Receipt” and “Net 30” (which means payment is due within 30 days).
Choose terms that work for both you and your clients. If you’re working on a big project, you might set up a payment schedule with installments due at different stages of the job.
Sometimes, clients want your painting services but might struggle to cover the full cost upfront. Offer financing options as a helping hand. It makes your services more accessible and can lead to more jobs.
You don’t have to be a bank to offer financing. Many painters partner with financial companies that specialize in home improvement loans. These companies handle the credit checks and payments, while you focus on what you do best—painting.
By offering financing, you can land bigger jobs or work with clients who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford your services. Just be sure to clearly explain the terms and any interest rates involved.
FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS — Free Painting Invoice Templates
Using a painting contract template for your painting invoices can save you time and headaches. It’s like having a pre-sketched canvas. You just need to fill in the details. A good painting invoice template ensures you don’t forget any important information and helps your business look professional.
Most free invoice templates can be customized to fit your needs. You can add a logo, choose which information to include, and adjust the layout to match your style. This way, your invoice becomes a part of your brand, just like your painting work.
Here’s a clear and professional template for inspiration:
Make invoicing easy with Joist. It lets you create and send invoices in minutes—and with an easy-to-use mobile invoicing and estimating tool. Create estimates, convert them to customizable invoices, and offer your customers flexible payment methods.
Joist’s professional painting invoices help you simplify your finances and spend more time focusing on your clients.
