Content writer invoice template

How do content writers usually invoice?

Content writers invoice per article or per word, usually monthly for a batch of pieces delivered against a content calendar, with agencies and marketing teams paying on 30 day terms. Word counts and the number of articles are shown per line because that is how the client budgeted. Retainers for a fixed number of articles a month are invoiced in advance.

Content writers in this example give the customer 30 days to pay. Hourly rates run from £30 to £60. A full day is typically £220 to £400.

What should a content writer put on an invoice?

Beyond the legal basics, content writers should:

• List each article by title or topic with its word count and rate.
• For retainers, state the articles covered in the month and the rollover rule.
• Charge interviews, research calls and SEO briefs as separate lines; they are not writing time.
• Quote the client's content calendar reference or PO number.

Every UK invoice, whatever the trade, must also show:

• a unique, sequential invoice number
• your business name and address (and company number if you trade as a limited company)
• the client’s name and address
• the invoice date and, for VAT invoices, the date of supply if different
• a clear description of each item of work or goods
• the amount due and when it must be paid
• your VAT number, the VAT rate per line and the VAT total, if you are VAT registered

Do content writers charge VAT?

You only charge VAT once registered, which is compulsory when taxable turnover passes £90,000 in any rolling 12 months. Below that, show no VAT line and no VAT number. Once registered, this work is standard rated at 20%, including work for clients outside the UK in some cases, so check the place of supply rules for overseas clients.

On the Flat Rate Scheme the sector for content writers is usually “Entertainment or journalism” at 12.5% of VAT-inclusive turnover, with a 1% discount in the first year of registration. If you spend little on goods you may be a limited cost trader and have to use 16.5% instead. The scheme suits businesses with few VAT-able costs; check it against the standard method with the VAT calculator before joining.