DOCUMENT GUIDE

How to number invoices without losing track

Choose a simple invoice sequence, handle revisions clearly, and avoid duplicate numbers when using multiple devices.

Choose one clear sequence

Start with a format you can maintain. INV-2026-001 identifies the document type, year, and sequence. The next invoice becomes INV-2026-002. A plain sequence such as 1001, 1002, 1003 can work too; consistency matters more than decorative formatting.

Keep a small register

Record each issued number beside the customer, issue date, amount, and payment status in a spreadsheet or your existing bookkeeping system. Before sending an invoice, search that register for the number.

Separate document types

EST-2026-001, INV-2026-001, and REC-2026-001 are different references. If an estimate leads to an invoice, mention the estimate number in Notes so the relationship is clear. Do not assume matching sequence numbers mean the documents are linked.

Handle revisions deliberately

Correct a draft before it is issued. For a document already sent, keep the original and clearly identify the updated version in your records and message to the customer. Your business or jurisdiction may have specific correction requirements; the generator does not decide those for you.

Understand browser numbering

CreateBizDocs maintains a local sequence in this browser. Another device can independently suggest the same number. Restoring a backup carries its numbering counters, but it cannot know about invoices issued elsewhere. Review the suggested number against your register.

Keep your records recoverable

  1. Save your draft before switching tasks.
  2. Download the finished PDF when issuing the invoice.
  3. Use My Documents → Download Backup periodically and store it privately.
  4. After restoring or moving devices, verify the next number against your register.