Massage therapist invoice template

How do massage therapists usually invoice?

Massage therapists are paid per session at the time of treatment by card, with blocks of four or six sessions sold in advance at a discount and mobile visits carrying a travel surcharge. Clients claiming on health insurance or cash plans need a receipt with the therapist's qualification and membership number. Sports clubs and workplaces that book regular sessions are invoiced monthly.

Massage therapists in this example are paid on receipt. Hourly rates run from £45 to £90.

What should a massage therapist put on an invoice?

Beyond the legal basics, massage therapists should:

• State the treatment type and duration on each line, matching your price list.
• Include your professional body membership number; cash plan claims need it.
• Show blocks with the sessions bought, used and remaining.
• Add the mobile surcharge as a separate line so the treatment price stays comparable.

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 massage therapists charge VAT?

Massage is standard rated at 20% once you are VAT registered, which is compulsory above £90,000 turnover; most therapists are below it and charge no VAT. Massage is not exempt as health care unless supplied by a professional on a statutory register such as a physiotherapist, and even then only when it is treatment rather than relaxation.

On the Flat Rate Scheme the sector for massage therapists is usually “Any other activity not listed elsewhere” at 12% 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.