Resources 3 min read Updated February 15, 2026
Freelance Invoice Excel Template (Free Download)
Just starting out? You don't need expensive software yet. Here is a professional Excel invoice template you can use for free.
Why use Excel for invoicing?
When you send your very first invoice, Excel (or Google Sheets) is often the best choice. It's free, you already know how to use it, and it's fully customizable.
Our template includes:
- Automatic total calculation
- Tax/VAT fields
- Professional layout
- Payment terms section
The hidden cost of Excel invoices
While Excel is great for starting out, it has some major downsides as you grow:
Excel Cons
- ❌ Have to manually save as PDF every time
- ❌ No way to know if client opened it
- ❌ Easy to make formula mistakes
- ❌ Hard to track who paid and who didn't
- ❌ Manual follow-ups are awkward
Followio Pros
- ✅ Generates PDF instantly
- ✅ Tracks when client views the invoice
- ✅ Sends automatic polite reminders
- ✅ Dashboard shows exactly who owes you
- ✅ Professional payment portal
When to upgrade from Excel?
If you send more than 2 invoices a month, manual Excel sheets start to cost you time. And if you have to chase a client for payment even once, the stress isn't worth it.
Followio automates the boring parts. It sends the invoice, tracks it, and politely follows up if they don't pay. You just do the work and get paid.