Can I charge a trip fee or minimum service charge?
Yes. For short calls or long drives, a trip fee or minimum covers time, fuel, and setup. Put it on the estimate and invoice as its own line. State when it applies, like outside a set radius or under one hour. Clear terms prevent pushback and protect your margins.
What’s the best way to collect payment onsite?
Take cards, ACH, or a payment link at the job site. Add a QR code on the invoice. Get a quick signature before you leave. For larger jobs, collect a deposit and bill milestones. Email or text the receipt on the spot. If AP needs an invoice, send it from your phone.
Where do I put permit numbers, claim numbers, or inspection IDs?
Add them near the job details. Use a labeled field for Permit #, Insurance Claim #, or Inspection Report #. That helps adjusters, city inspectors, and property managers match your invoice to the job, which speeds approvals and payment.
When should I use a template vs the invoice generator?
Use a template for a single visit with simple parts and labor. Use the generator when you need saved clients and items, deposits, progress billing, reminders, or recurring jobs. If you send more than a few invoices a month, the generator saves hours.
What payment terms work best for home services?
Set clear terms up front. Common options: due on receipt for small jobs, Net 7–15 for service contracts, and deposits for materials-heavy work. List late fees and accepted methods. For multi-stage projects, use progress billing tied to milestones.
How do I handle change orders or add-ons done onsite?
Note the change under work details with date, who approved it, and any new materials or hours. Add the change order as a line item. If the job is big, send a revised estimate and convert it to an invoice. Clear notes prevent disputes later.
