Creating invoices in QuickBooks is essential for managing your business's cash flow and maintaining accurate records. This guide will walk you through the steps to create invoices in both QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop, and how you can use third-party tools to automates this process, saving you time and reducing errors.

Creating Invoices in QuickBooks Online

  1. Access the Invoice Feature: Log into your QuickBooks Online account. Click on + New in the left-hand menu, then select Invoice.
  2. Select the Customer: Choose your client from the Customer dropdown. If your customer isn’t listed, click Add New to enter their details.
  3. Set Payment Terms: Specify your payment terms, such as Net 30, to indicate when the payment is due.
  4. Add Products or Services: Under the Product/Service column, add the items or services provided. Enter the quantity, rate, and any applicable tax.
  5. Customize the Invoice: Click on Customize at the bottom and choose Edit Current. Add your company logo, adjust colors, and modify the layout as needed.
  6. Preview and Send: Click Print or Preview to see the invoice as your client will. Once satisfied, select Save and send to email the invoice directly.

Creating Invoices in QuickBooks Desktop

  1. Open the Invoice Window: Launch QuickBooks Desktop and go to the Customers menu. Choose Create Invoices.
  2. Choose the Customer or Job: From the Customer:Job dropdown, select the correct client. If it’s a new customer, click Add New.
  3. Select an Invoice Template: QuickBooks offers various templates. Pick one that fits your style or adjust an existing template to suit your needs.
  4. Enter Invoice Details: Set the Invoice Date and specify the Terms like Net 30. Add the items or services, including quantity and rate.
  5. Apply Taxes and Discounts: Assign the proper tax codes for taxable items. If you offer a discount, add it in the Discount field or as a separate line.
  6. Save and Send the Invoice: After checking the details, click Save & Close to save the invoice or select Save & Send to email it directly to your recipient.

Automating Invoicing with Slipstream

While QuickBooks provides robust tools for manual invoicing, automating this process can significantly enhance efficiency. Slipstream is designed to integrate seamlessly with your CRM and QuickBooks, automating invoice creation as soon as deals close. This reduces manual data entry, minimizes errors, and ensures timely invoicing.

Slipstream supports integrations with popular CRMs like HubSpot and Pipedrive, with more integrations coming soon. The onboarding process is straightforward, typically requiring two to three 30-minute calls, and can be completed in as little as three business days. Slipstream offers simple and transparent pricing plans, starting at $49 per month, with tailored documentation and training included.

By automating your invoicing process with Slipstream, you can focus more on growing your business and less on administrative tasks. To learn more and see how Slipstream can benefit your business, consider booking a demo today.

In summary, while QuickBooks provides the tools to create invoices manually, automating this process with Slipstream can save time, reduce errors, and improve your overall billing efficiency. Efficient invoicing is crucial for small businesses, and leveraging automation tools like Slipstream can help streamline your operations as you grow.