What does Net 30 mean?

'Net 30' means the full payment is due 30 days after the invoice date. However, many clients find this jargon confusing, so using a specific date is better.

Is it unprofessional to ask for a PO number?

No, it is highly professional. Large companies often cannot pay without one, so asking upfront shows you understand their process and prevents delays.

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5 Invoicing mistakes that are causing your payment delays

Sometimes the problem isn't the client-it's the invoice. ensure you aren't making these friction-causing errors.

Quick start: How to fix common invoicing mistakes

Step 1

Use a specific due date

Replace 'Net 30' with a clear date like 'Due: October 15th'.

Step 2

Send wrap-up emails

Don't send bare invoices. Include a summary of work completed to reinforce value.

Step 3

Include payment links

Add direct Stripe, PayPal, or UPI links to the PDF to reduce friction.

Step 4

Send from a human address

Avoid 'noreply' addresses. Use a real name so clients can reply with questions.

You might be accidentally encouraging clients to pay late. Check if you are making these 5 common invoice design and process errors.

1. Using "Net 30" instead of a Date

"Net 30" is accountant jargon. A busy business owner sees it and thinks "I have plenty of time."

Fix: Write "Due Date: October 15th, 2024" in bold.

2. Sending the invoice "On Receipt"

Sending an invoice the moment a project is done acts as a "hard stop" to the relationship. It can feel transactional.

Fix: Send it with a "wrap up" email summary of what was accomplished, reinforcing value before asking for money.

3. Not offering one-click payments

Asking a client to copy-paste IBAN numbers or write a check adds friction. Friction causes procrastination.

Fix: Use Stripe, PayPal, or Wise links directly in the PDF.

4. Forgetting the "Reference" field

Large companies WILL lose your invoice if it doesn't match their PO number or project code.

Fix: Always ask "Do you need a PO number on this?" before sending.

5. Sending it from a "No Reply" address

If they have a question about line item 3, and they can't reply, they won't pay. They'll just ignore it.

Fix: Send from a human email address (e.g., poojan@foloque.in).

Fix mistake #6: Forgetting to follow up

The biggest mistake is sending the invoice and hoping. Foloque ensures you never forget to follow up.

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