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🇬🇧United Kingdom·VAT 20%·GBP

United Kingdom Legal Services Invoice Template

UK solicitors must comply with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) billing rules.

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Accent Color

Your Business

Bill To (Client)

Invoice Details

%

Line Items

Item 1
£1,350.00
Item 2
£2,250.00
Item 3
£3,200.00
Item 4
£0.00
Item 5
£900.00

🇬🇧 United Kingdom Requirements

Currency£ GBP
TaxVAT (20%)
Date formatDD/MM/YYYY
PaymentBACS bank transfer is the most common payment method.

VAT-registered businesses must display their VAT number on all invoices. The standard UK VAT rate is 20%. Invoices must also include a unique sequential invoice number, your full business name and address, and the supply date.

Payment Terms

Net 30 (monthly billing)

About United Kingdom Legal Services Invoicing

UK solicitors must comply with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) billing rules. Bills of costs must be itemised, signed, and include your VAT number if applicable. Clients have the right to request a detailed bill breakdown under the Legal Services Act 2007. Legal invoices are subject to strict professional conduct rules in most jurisdictions. Solicitors, barristers, and attorneys must provide detailed time records, clearly itemize disbursements (court fees, expert witness costs, filing fees), and provide billing narratives that allow clients to understand what they are paying for. Trust accounting rules may also apply when client funds are held.

Frequently Asked Questions

What must a solicitor's invoice include in the UK?
In the UK, a solicitor's invoice (called a 'bill of costs') must itemize work done and disbursements, include the VAT registration number if applicable, and be signed. Clients have the right to request an itemized bill and can apply to court for assessment if they dispute it.
How are legal disbursements handled on invoices?
Disbursements (third-party costs paid on your client's behalf) should be listed separately from your professional fees. They may or may not attract VAT/GST depending on their nature. Court filing fees, for example, are typically outside the scope of VAT.
What is a retainer and how does it affect invoicing?
A legal retainer is an advance payment held on account. When work is completed, you draw down from the retainer and issue an invoice showing the amount deducted. If the retainer is exhausted, invoice for additional amounts. Always maintain proper trust account records.
Can attorneys charge interest on unpaid invoices?
Yes, with appropriate disclosure. In the US, attorneys can charge interest if disclosed in the engagement letter. In the UK, the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 entitles businesses to statutory interest of 8% above base rate on overdue commercial invoices.
When do I need to include a VAT number on UK invoices?
You must display your VAT registration number on all invoices if your business is registered for VAT. VAT registration is mandatory once your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in a rolling 12-month period. Your VAT number follows the format GB XXX XXXX XX. Invoices without a valid VAT number cannot be used by your customers to reclaim input VAT.
What is the current UK VAT rate for invoices?
The standard UK VAT rate is 20% and applies to most goods and services. A reduced rate of 5% applies to certain items such as home energy and children's car seats. Some supplies — including most food, children's clothing, and books — are zero-rated (0%). Make sure your invoice shows the correct VAT rate for each line item.
What are the legal requirements for a valid UK invoice?
A valid UK VAT invoice must include: a unique sequential invoice number, the date of issue and the supply date, your business name, address, and VAT number, the customer's name and address, a description of the goods or services, the quantity and unit price, the VAT rate and amount for each item, and the total amount including and excluding VAT.

Related Guides

How to Write an Invoice
Read guide →
Invoice Payment Terms
Read guide →
Uk Vat Invoices Explained
Read guide →

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Same template, other countries:

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