Invoice types

VAT Invoice Generator

A VAT invoice is a tax invoice that shows value added tax as a distinct line, along with the seller's VAT registration number, so registered buyers can account for the VAT correctly.

How do I create a VAT invoice?: With Receipt Caker, add your VAT registration number, list each item at its net price, set the VAT rate so VAT appears as its own line, then export the document. It runs in your browser with no signup.
What must a VAT invoice show?: A VAT invoice must show the seller's VAT number, the net amount for each item, the VAT rate applied, the total VAT, and the gross total. This breakdown lets a VAT-registered buyer reclaim input VAT and keeps the seller's records clear.

What to include on a vat invoice

Seller name, address and VAT registration number

Buyer name and address (and VAT number where relevant)

Line items with net (VAT-exclusive) unit price and quantity

VAT rate applied to each line

Total net amount, total VAT and gross total

A unique invoice number and issue date

The words 'VAT Invoice' as the document title

What you can do

Show VAT as a separate line with the net amount
Add your VAT number in the header or notes
Set the VAT rate and see VAT and gross totals update
Live preview of the net, VAT and gross breakdown
Free watermarked PNG export from the browser
Pro removes the watermark and adds your logo on PDF

What a VAT invoice is

A VAT invoice is a form of tax invoice used where value added tax applies. It breaks the sale into a net amount, the VAT charged on that amount, and the gross total, so the tax portion is never hidden inside a single figure.

It also displays the seller's VAT registration number, which confirms the business is registered to charge VAT. For a VAT-registered buyer, this number and the clear breakdown are what allow them to reclaim the VAT they have paid.

When a VAT invoice is required

If your business is registered for VAT and you make a taxable supply, you generally issue a VAT invoice, particularly to other VAT-registered businesses. The document supports their input VAT claims and your own output VAT records.

The key difference from an ordinary invoice is the mandatory detail. A VAT invoice must isolate the net and VAT amounts and quote your VAT number, so both sides of the transaction can account for the tax accurately.

What to include

Label the document as a VAT invoice and place your VAT number where it is easy to see. For each line, show the net unit price, quantity and the VAT rate that applies. Then summarise the total net, the total VAT and the gross amount payable.

Include a unique invoice number, the issue date and the buyer's details, adding their VAT number where the transaction calls for it. If lines carry different VAT rates, keep each rate and its VAT clearly separated so the breakdown is transparent.

Building one in Receipt Caker

Enter your business and buyer details and add your VAT number in the header or a note. List each item at its net price, then set the VAT rate so the generator shows VAT as a separate line and calculates the gross total automatically.

Review the net, VAT and gross figures in the live preview, then export a free watermarked PNG or a clean Pro PDF with your logo. Receipt Caker builds the invoice only; it does not file VAT returns, total your VAT liability, or connect to accounting tools.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a VAT invoice and a tax invoice?

A VAT invoice is a specific type of tax invoice used in regions that apply value added tax. Both separate the tax from the net amount and show the seller's tax registration number, but a VAT invoice uses VAT terminology and shows a VAT rate and VAT number specifically. The underlying principle, a clear net-and-tax breakdown, is the same.

Do I need to show my VAT number on the invoice?

Yes. The seller's VAT registration number is a required element of a VAT invoice. It proves you are registered to charge VAT and gives the buyer the reference they need to reclaim it. Add it in Receipt Caker's header or notes so it appears prominently on the finished document alongside the VAT breakdown.

Should prices be net or gross on a VAT invoice?

List each line at its net, VAT-exclusive price, then show the VAT as a separate amount and the gross total that includes it. This structure makes the tax component explicit, which is what a VAT invoice is for. In Receipt Caker you enter net prices and set the VAT rate, and the tool calculates the VAT and gross total for you.

Can I reclaim VAT using an invoice from Receipt Caker?

The invoice you build carries the detail a VAT-registered buyer typically needs to support an input VAT claim, including net amounts, VAT and your VAT number. However, whether VAT can be reclaimed depends on your local rules and circumstances. Receipt Caker only produces the document; it does not submit claims or provide tax advice. Check with your accountant.

How do I handle different VAT rates on one invoice?

When a sale includes items at different VAT rates, keep each rate and its VAT clearly identified so the buyer can see how the total VAT was reached. Receipt Caker centres on a clean single-rate breakdown, so for mixed rates you can separate the items and note each rate in the descriptions, then verify the totals in the live preview before exporting.

Does Receipt Caker submit my VAT return?

No. Receipt Caker generates and exports individual VAT invoices in your browser. It does not prepare or file VAT returns, calculate your net VAT position across a period, or link to any tax authority or accounting system. The invoices serve as source documents you or your accountant use when preparing your actual VAT filings.

Related invoice templates

GST Invoice Tax Invoice Invoice With Tax Sales Invoice Commercial Invoice