Quotes and invoices
Working with clear paperwork makes you look professional and protects you if something goes wrong.
The quote (before you start)
- Exactly what you’ll do and what it does not include.
- Price, delivery dates and how many changes are included.
- How and when it’s paid (for example, 50% at the start and 50% on delivery).
- The client says “yes” in writing (a message or email is enough).
The invoice (to get paid)
If you’re registered, every job has its invoice with: number, date, your details and the client’s, what you did, the price without VAT, the VAT and the total.
VATUsually 21%. You charge it to the client and pay it to the tax office every quarter: it isn’t your money.
Income tax withholdingIf you’re a professional and invoice a company or another self-employed person, you deduct 15% (7% in your first year and the two after). The client pays that money to the tax office for you. It doesn’t apply to private individuals.
Example: 20 hours at €50 for a company
Base: €1,000 · VAT 21%: +€210 · Withholding 15%: −€150
Total to collect: €1,060
Base: €1,000 · VAT 21%: +€210 · Withholding 15%: −€150
Total to collect: €1,060
There are simple invoicing programs and apps, and a gestoría can handle everything for a small monthly fee. At first it’s worth it: you learn without fear of getting it wrong.