A free template or basic tool might raise a simple self-billed invoice, but paid software is what reliably handles the reverse charge, per-supplier VAT status, bulk volume, credit notes and a proper audit trail. For anything beyond the occasional invoice, paid pays for itself in avoided VAT errors and saved time.
Key points
- Free options rarely handle the reverse charge or CIS.
- Paid software scales and keeps a full audit trail.
- Compliance errors on VAT documents are costly.
- Suppliers still receive their copies free either way.
What “free” usually misses
Free templates don’t enforce numbering, track agreements, apply the reverse charge, or keep records — the exact things HMRC cares about.
This is general information, not tax advice — confirm your own position with your accountant or HMRC.