Invoice vs Receipt
An invoice asks for payment; a receipt confirms payment. They differ in timing, content and bookkeeping role. Mixing them up breaks receivables and tax records.
Different timing
An invoice is issued before or at delivery and states payment terms; a receipt is issued after money is received.
For deposits, issue an invoice first and a receipt after payment.
Content and bookkeeping
An invoice lists items, quantities, unit prices, tax, total and payment terms; a receipt shows amount paid, date and payment method.
Invoices support receivables; receipts support cash received or expenses. Keep both.
FAQ
Can I use only receipts?
Not when the customer needs a payment request; B2B usually requires an invoice, with a receipt as confirmation.
Does an invoice need a tax ID?
It depends on your jurisdiction and VAT registration; cross-border and business customers often require it.