Net 30 means the client has 30 days from the invoice date to pay. Net 15 means 15 days. Due on receipt means pay as soon as you get it. The terms you pick set when you can expect the money.
1What the terms mean
Net 30 counts 30 days from the invoice date. If you send it on Nov 01 2026, it is due on Dec 01 2026. Write the actual due date on the invoice too, so nobody has to count.
2How to choose
Small jobs for homes are often due on receipt. Work for companies is often net 15 or net 30, because their accounts teams pay in batches. A shorter term gets you paid sooner.
3Put it in writing early
Say your terms on the estimate or in your first message, then repeat them on the invoice. It is much easier to ask for payment when the client already agreed to the terms.
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Questions people ask
Is net 30 the same as 30 days after the work?
No. It counts from the invoice date, not the date of the work. Send the invoice soon after the job.
Can I charge extra for late payment?
Some businesses do and say so in their terms. Rules differ by state and by country, so check before you add a late fee.
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Invoice templates by trade
Sample lines and answers for each kind of work.
