Invoicing explained
Invoice vs Quote
A quote is a fixed price offered before the work; an invoice is the bill sent after it. A quote is usually a firmer, fixed figure (versus an estimate's approximation), but both come before the invoice that requests payment.
What is invoice?
An invoice is the request for payment after work is delivered, with a unique number, itemized amounts, and payment terms.
What is quote?
A quote is a formal, usually fixed price you commit to before the work. Unlike a rough estimate, a quote is often treated as binding for a set period, which gives the client price certainty when they decide.
Invoice vs Quote: the key differences
Here's how invoice and quote differ at a glance:
- Timing — quote before work; invoice after.
- Price certainty — a quote is typically a fixed, committed price.
- Purpose — quote wins the job; invoice collects payment.
How this works in Invco
No. Invco handles invoices only. Send your quote however you usually do, then create the invoice in Invco when the work is done, with the same line items, prices and tax rates.
Invco is invoicing software for people who run more than one company. Design your own invoice template or upload your existing invoice PDF, add line items with per-line tax and discounts, and Invco calculates the totals, numbers each invoice sequentially and emails it as a branded PDF from your own address. Every invoice is tracked from draft to sent to paid, and overdue ones are flagged automatically. Plans from $10/month.
More invoicing comparisons
- Invoice vs EstimateAn estimate is a non-binding projection of what a job will cost, sent before the work.
- Invoice vs ReceiptAn invoice requests payment for goods or services; a receipt confirms that payment has been made.
- Net 30 vs Due on ReceiptNet 30 gives the client 30 days to pay from the invoice date; due on receipt asks for payment immediately.
- Proforma Invoice vs InvoiceA proforma invoice is a preliminary invoice that sets out the expected cost before delivery; a final invoice is the formal request for payment after delivery.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between invoice and quote?
A quote is a fixed price offered before the work; an invoice is the bill sent after it. A quote is usually a firmer, fixed figure (versus an estimate's approximation), but both come before the invoice that requests payment.
Can Invco create quotes?
No. Invco handles invoices only. Send your quote however you usually do, then create the invoice in Invco when the work is done, with the same line items, prices and tax rates.
How much does Invco cost?
Starter is $10/month for 1 company, Growth is $20/month for up to 3 companies, Pro is $30/month for up to 8 companies, Scale is $50/month for up to 20 companies, and Unlimited is $100/month with no cap. Every plan includes every feature, with no per-invoice fees, and you get a full refund if you cancel within 7 days of a charge.
Invoice the easy way with Invco
Design your invoice template, send branded PDFs from your own email address, and see what's paid and overdue for every company. Plans from $10/month, with a full refund within 7 days.
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