What a compliant invoice must include
What must be included on every invoice you raise - explained
Every invoice you raise must contain specific information required by HMRC and Companies House. Xero's configured template includes all required fields automatically.
Required fields
- Your company legal name and registered address
- Your VAT registration number (if VAT-registered)
- A unique sequential invoice number
- The invoice date
- Your customer's name and address
- A clear description of the goods or services supplied
- The net amount, the VAT rate, the VAT amount, and the gross total
- Your payment terms and bank account details
Before sending your first invoice
Preview a draft invoice in Xero to check that all fields are present and correct. In particular, check that your VAT number is visible, your company name matches your Companies House registration, and your bank details are accurate.
💡 Good to know: A valid VAT invoice is required by your customer to reclaim the input VAT. Missing the VAT number, or the VAT breakdown means they cannot reclaim it. Check your Xero template before sending any invoice to a VAT-registered customer.
Not found what you're looking for?
Please get in touch and we'll be happy to help:
Email: You can submit a request using our contact form
Phone: 020 3897 2233
Live Chat: Select the live chat icon on the bottom right