When to use or avoid a handwritten invoice.

Yes, invoices can be handwritten, but it’s not always a good idea. Here’s what you need to know about the risks and benefits of using a handwritten invoice in business.

Invoices are simply itemized lists of goods or services provided and payment terms for a customer. As long as they contain all the essential information, invoices can be printed, digital, handwritten, or presented in hieroglyphics. It all depends on what’s best for your brand’s image and the format customers will accept.

Can an invoice be handwritten for small business use?

Handwritten invoices can be a practical choice for small businesses, particularly when dealing with low transaction volumes, wanting to add a nice personal touch to client interactions, or working with limited resources. They offer a cost-effective, simple, and immediate billing solution. As a business grows, handwritten invoices may become less practical, potentially lacking the level of professionalism or scalability needed. Electronic invoicing is often a more suitable alternative in these cases.

What to include in a handwritten invoice.

It’s simple to learn how to create an invoice template PDF to streamline your invoicing process so you’re not relying on handwritten ones. Here’s a reference for what to include in a handwritten invoice:

• Business contact information
• Itemized list of products and services
• Payment terms
• Invoice date
• Invoice number
• Client contact information
• Total amount due

With the right information included, you can handwrite your invoices — just make sure the writing is neat and legible so that it’s easy to read.

When is a handwritten invoice beneficial to use?

In specific scenarios, handwritten invoices offer practical advantages for small businesses. Here are some instances when a handwritten invoice is a good choice:

• Low transaction volume. Ideal for businesses dealing with a limited number of clients or billing needs that are not very frequent.
• Personalization. Written invoices add a personal touch, which can help foster stronger client relationships.
• Cost efficiency. A cost-effective option that helps eliminate the need for specialized software or printing.
• Simple to use. Handwritten invoices are easy to create and issue, making them ideal for businesses that have straightforward invoicing needs.
• Immediate issuance. Writing invoices by hand is perfect for on-the-spot billing, especially in cases where in-person or immediate payments are the norm.

Why you should avoid handwritten invoices.

Handwritten invoices may be easy, but they’re not preferred for most business transactions. Here are a few reasons why you might want to avoid handwritten invoices:

• They simply don’t look as professional as printed or digital documents.
• They’re typically only used for small or informal business transactions, such as lawn mowing or window washing.
• Handwritten invoices are harder to process with accounting software.
• Many companies don’t accept them at all.
• It’s just as easy to download free invoice templates from any number of online sites.

Replace your handwritten invoice and simplify billing.

Upgrade your invoicing for simplicity. Handwritten invoices, while easy, lack the professional touch and can be inconvenient for both you and your clients. To streamline your current billing process and help ensure a professional look for your business, consider switching to digital invoices. You can easily find free invoice templates online, making the transition quick and cost-effective. Even if you use digital invoices, you can still have customers sign for goods and services with e-signature software like Adobe Acrobat. Once an invoice is sent, customers can add their legal signature with the click of a button.

Simplify your business billing process — explore everything you can do with Acrobat today.