This is part of our Invoicing and Getting Paid series (Chapter 2 of the Xero tutorial hub):

• Lesson 1: Creating and Sending Your First Sales Invoice in Xero
• Lesson 2: Customising Your Invoice Branding in Xero
• Lesson 3: Setting Up Automated Invoice Reminders in Xero
• Lesson 4: Using Quotes in Xero to Win and Track Trade Jobs
• Lesson 5: Accepting Online Payments and E-Invoicing in Xero
• Lesson 6: Setting Up Recurring Invoices in Xero for Retainer Clients

Sending your first invoice in Xero takes a few minutes once you know where everything sits. Here is the basic process.

1. Start a new invoice

From the Business menu, select Invoices, then New Invoice. Choose or add the customer you are billing.

2. Add your line items

Add each item or service you are billing for, along with the quantity, unit price, and the correct GST treatment. Xero will calculate the totals for you as you go.

3. Set your payment terms

Choose your due date and add any reference details the client needs, like a purchase order number or job reference.

4. Review and send

Check everything looks right, then send the invoice directly from Xero by email. The client gets a link to view and pay online if you have that set up.

For a walkthrough of the invoicing screen, Xero’s official YouTube channel has current videos worth watching: watch the official Xero tutorial. If invoicing speed is holding your cash flow back, our tradie bookkeeping team can help tighten up the process.